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Koala Identification

Harnessing AI & Citizen Science for Koala Conservation

At Koala Snap, we are revolutionising koala conservation by combining cutting-edge AI technology with the power of citizen science. Through the SLOOP Identification Process, we can accurately identify individual koalas using their unique nose patterns—just like human fingerprints. This allows us to track their movements, understand their behaviours, and monitor their habitats over time.

By taking part in Koala Snap, you can help build a comprehensive database of koalas, making it easier to protect and conserve this beloved species.

The Process

How to record your sighting?

Step 1

Take a Clear Photo of a Koala’s Nose

Every koala has a unique nose pattern that remains unchanged throughout its lifetime. Capturing a clear image of a koala’s nose is the key to identification.

Photo tips

Ensure the image is well-lit and focused.

Take a front-facing shot of the koala’s nose.

Avoid obstructing the nostrils—this is where key identification markers are.

Step 2

Submit Your Photo to Koala Snap

Upload your image via the Koala Snap Messenger app.

Important details

Location: Where did you see the koala?

Tree Type: What kind of tree was it in?

Behaviour: Was the koala eating, sleeping, climbing, or interacting with others?

Step 3

AI-Powered Identification with SLOOP

Once uploaded, our AI system scans the image and compares the koala’s nose pattern to our growing database.

What happens next?

If a match is found, your sighting will be linked to that koala’s profile.

If the koala is new, it will be added to our database as a new individual for future tracking.

Resources

Koala Gender Identification: How to Tell if a Koala is Male or Female

Determining a koala’s gender can provide valuable insights into population dynamics and breeding patterns. While close physical examination is not always possible, there are several visible characteristics that can help you identify a koala’s gender in the wild.

Size

  • Male koalas are generally larger than females of the same age.
  • However, size alone is not always a reliable indicator, as young males can be similar in size to adult females.
  • If you spot a particularly large koala, it is most likely a male.

Scent Gland

Most Reliable Indicator

  • Mature male koalas develop a dark, hairless scent gland on their chest.
  • This gland secretes a musky scent that males use to mark their territory.
  • Female koalas do not have this gland.

Calls & Sounds

  • Male koalas produce deep grunting or snoring sounds, especially when climbing trees or during mating season.
  • Female koalas make high-pitched screeches, especially if approached by a male.

Watch here

Nose Profile

  • Male koalas tend to have a broader, more rounded nose.
  • Female koalas typically have a slimmer, more pointed nose.

Genital Visibility

  • In some cases, male koalas’ testicles may be visible, particularly when they are moving between trees.

Next time you spot a koala, take note of these features and see if you can determine its gender!

Koala Tree Identification: Understanding Their Habitat

Koalas are picky eaters and rely on specific trees for food and shelter. Identifying the trees they prefer can help researchers protect vital habitats and ensure koalas have enough food sources to thrive.

Koalas on Raymond Island are commonly found in the following trees

Manna Gum
Manna Gum

Manna Gum

Eucalyptus viminalis

A primary food source for koalas.

Red Gum
Red Gum

Red Gum

Eucalyptus camaldulensis

Provides food and shelter.

Banksia
Banksia

Banksia

Banksia integrifolia

A secondary habitat tree.

Manna Gum
Southern Mahogony

Southern Mahogany

Eucalyptus botryoides

Used for shelter and occasional feeding.

Banksia
Wattle (Acacia)

Wattle

Acacia species

Important for shelter, though not a primary food source.

Want to learn more?

Check out our Koala Tree Guide

Your portal to citizen science for koala conservation!
Email

koalasnap10@gmail.com

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