Sassafras, a newborn Koala is pictured with its mother Alinga at the Planckendael Zoo in Mechelen, Belgium April 11, 2018. (Reuters photo)SYDNEY: Australia unveiled on Monday a US$34 million plan to help bring its koala population back from the brink, following a rapid decline in the furry marsupial's fortunes. "Koalas are a national treasure," said Gladys Berejiklian, premier of New South Wales state, in announcing her government's conservation plan. Studies show a 26% decline in the koala population in New South Wales over the last 15-20 years. The move follows an independent report in late 2016 that recommended a clearer strategy to deal with the population decline.

Source: Bangkok Post May 07, 2018 07:41 UTC