Animal Diaries Archive

Bert license

26 May 2006

More joys in my life as a Rover. I got my Bert Licence!

Bert is a three-year-old male koala that now lives here at Australia Zoo. Originally from Ballarat in Victoria, he made the trip about 10 months ago and has settled in brilliantly. Being a Southern Koala, he is a lot larger and darker (but not necessarily heavier) than our local koalas. We are all very excited about having Bert live here at Australia Zoo. Krystal, our main koala trainer, has spent a lot of time helping Bert settle in and getting him familiar with the training and surroundings that come with living at Australia Zoo. Being in the Wandering Wildlife Department, I have been lucky enough to be in training with Bert, getting him used to both the roving side of his new life, and me, someone he can trust. Roving is where he gets to come and meet you guys! It’s a great opportunity for our guests to see the different types of koalas here at the Zoo. Now that Bert is comfortable with the smells and noises of his new home, he is very happy to come out to meet you all.

So next time you're in the Zoo look out for Bert - the extra big, extra cuddly Southern Koala. Be sure to bring your camera and get a photo of taken with him!