The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Australia recently banned hugging and holding koalas. The new decision was not so much taken to increase animal welfare as a specific request from visitors

As of July 1, 2024, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, one of Australia’s most renowned wildlife parks, has made a significant decision: cuddling and holding koalas are now prohibited. While this decision might seem primarily aimed at protecting the species, the main reason behind it is actually quite surprising.

The park’s official announcement clarifies that the decision was driven not only by the need to protect the animals but also by a growing demand from visitors. These visitors have expressed a desire to spend more time observing koalas in their natural habitat rather than holding them in an artificial setting.

This is excellent news, showing a rising awareness of the joy in watching animals in the wild, even from a distance, without forcing physical contact.

Introducing “Koala Close-Up”

The sanctuary has introduced a new experience called “Koala Close-Up,” allowing visitors to observe koalas more closely and interact with the sanctuary’s expert staff, without touching or disturbing the animals.

Quote from General Manager

Lyndon Discombe, General Manager of the sanctuary, stated:

“We are pleased to see a shift among local and international visitors who want to experience Australian wildlife up close, but without physical interaction. With the new Koala Close-Up program, we hope to offer our guests an opportunity to learn about and appreciate koalas in their natural state.”

Benefits for the Koalas

The animals will also benefit, as cuddling can stress koalas. This species prefers solitude and naturally avoids human contact. Interactions like hugging can negatively affect their health, as studies show increased cortisol levels, the stress hormone, which can impair their immune system and reproductive capabilities.

It is hoped that other parks and sanctuaries in Australia will follow Lone Pine’s example, extending such practices to other animals that, like koalas, deserve to live in environments that respect their natural needs and ensure their physical and psychological well-being.

Source: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary