For many Australians, a backyard pool is the ultimate symbol of summer fun, relaxation, and family gatherings.
But for our native wildlife, these sparkling blue oases can sometimes become deadly traps—something one family discovered in the most heartbreaking way.
Koalas, like many of our native species, are facing increasing threats as their natural habitats are cleared for housing and development.
As their bushland homes shrink and fragment, koalas are forced to navigate urban landscapes, crossing roads, venturing into backyards, and, sadly, encountering hazards like swimming pools and domestic pets.
Earlier this week, homeowners in Kippa-Ring, a suburb in Queensland’s Moreton Bay region, were devastated to find a lifeless koala at the bottom of their backyard pool.
The incident, while rare, has sent shockwaves through the local community and prompted an urgent plea from wildlife rescuers: our pools can pose a hidden danger to Australia’s beloved native animals.
While it’s unclear exactly how the koala ended up in the water—whether it fell from an overhanging tree or was searching for a drink during a dry spell—this tragedy is a stark reminder of the unintended consequences of urban living on our wildlife.
A spokesperson from Moreton Bay Koala Rescue explained, ‘The real problem koalas are facing is habitat loss and fragmentation—as koalas try to traverse the urban landscape they are forced to cross roads more frequently which increases their chance of being struck by vehicles and they also frequently get into backyards where they are at a high risk of dog attacks and pool drownings.’
While koala drownings are not common, even a single loss is a tragedy for a species already under significant pressure.
Following the heartbreaking incident in Kippa-Ring, Moreton Bay Koala Rescue offered reassuring news: every pool owner can take a few easy, effective steps to help protect koalas and other native animals.
- Trim overhanging branches: Koalas are excellent climbers, but if a tree or palm frond hangs over your pool, it can become a dangerous launchpad. Regularly trim back any branches that could allow animals to fall or jump into the water.
- Install a wildlife escape rope: Place a sturdy rope in your pool, securing one end to a tree or fence and the other to a flotation device in the water. This simple addition can give a struggling animal a lifeline to climb out. There are also commercially available ‘wildlife ramps’ designed for this purpose—search ‘pool wildlife escape’ online for ideas.
- Modify your fencing: Attaching smooth plastic sheeting or shade cloth to the top of your fence can prevent koalas from climbing in. Wildlife exclusion fences are ideal, but even temporary barriers can make a difference.
- Create claw-friendly exits: If a koala does enter your yard, providing a piece of shade cloth or similar material on your fence or a tree can help them climb out safely.
Australia’s wildlife is unique and precious, but it’s also under threat. Koalas, in particular, have seen their numbers dwindle due to habitat loss, disease, and climate change. Every small action we take to make our homes safer for them can make a real difference.
Have you ever found a wild animal in your pool or backyard? What other ideas do you think could help protect native animals in suburban spaces? Share your stories, tips, and suggestions in the comments below.
Also read: Outrage ensues over Australia’s controversial koala control method
