We have specialist in-house knowledge and methodologies to identify and map koala habitat as well as delineating the precise distribution of free-ranging koala populations across the landscape. We have expertise in the preparation of site-specific and Shire-wide (Comprehensive) Koala Plans of Management (KPoM) as well as conducting small to large-scale (10 – 1,000,000 ha) koala monitoring programs. 

Using a sampling tool called the Spot Assessment Technique (SAT) we have developed an unbiased and systematic approach to the matter of objectively assessing koala habitat. Called Regularised Grid-based Spot Assessment Technique (RG-bSAT) sampling, the technique enables koala habitat and population assessments to be undertaken across large areas. The data we obtain allows us to determine several things including local food tree preferences and koala population density (and hence population size), while also providing key information on exactly where koala populations are located across the landscape.

Over the last decade RG-bSAT has been applied along the eastern seaboard of Australia from Raymond Island and the Strzlecki Ranges in Victoria to the Liverpool Plains and Brigalow country in central western NSW and Queensland, to more densely populated areas such as Northern NSW and the Gold Coast in south-eastern Queensland. Modelling of koala metapopulation boundaries using this approach has been shown to invariably capture 100% of breeding females; a significant outcome that allows us to be confident that the approach clearly delineates the most important habitat areas.

Biolink utilises other field-based survey approaches including (but not limited to) Rapid-SAT and strip-transects and we work with our Clients to determine the best survey approach for each project. Survey outcomes are used in a range of ways, including long-term monitoring programs for Local Government Areas, provision of expert advice (Biodiversity Assessment Method), navigating the EPBC referral process and supporting non-profit environmental organisations.