South Australian  Kangaroo island  Koala

Pastel on Pastel mat paper

 Image size 34 X 41cm.

Sometimes when I am up a tree with a koala I find myself wondering. Not just what the koala may think of me, but wondering at just how fortunate I have been to share my life with such marvellous fellow beings.

I know that this highly specialised little tree climber is not only totally inoffensive but in fact plays a crucial role in preserving the ongoing health of the Australian eucalypt forests which it depends upon for its food and safety....and which in their turn rely upon him for the sustenance his droppings provide by nourishing the soil of the forest.

I have just finished this pastel painting which will be available here in my gallery at www.stevemorvell.com and funds raised from his sale will go to the Koala Territory Foundation (see below). This little koala lives on South Australia's Kangaroo Island where we protect and live off grid on a heritage listed bushland property. I have access to all sorts of wonderful creatures there and am able to study them in their own environment as they go about their daily lives.... protected from threats by people and other pest species.

I am also blessed to be a board member of the Koala Territory Foundation and together with our founding scientists and other members do whatever we can to educate people about the threats facing koalas and in the process work on fund raising for a koala hospital and other worthy goals. If you would like to help us and the koalas please go to the following link and check out our website https://www.koalaterritory.org.au/