“Koalas are particularly active in spring because of breeding urges,” a spokesperson said.

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“Young males are dispersing, looking for territory as alpha males assert their dominance.”

Old males ousted by stronger competitors may be on the move as well, making all koalas vulnerable on the ground to car strikes and attacks by dogs, cats and foxes.

The spokesperson urged motorists to take extra care at night, watch road edges and drive more carefully in koala crossing spots.

The Department of Environment and Heritage advises that members of the public should only attempt to rescue a sick, injured or orphaned native animal not capable of fending for itself, if it is safe for both them and the animal.

Snakes, bats, flying-foxes or marine wildlife can only be rescued by qualified people and it is not permissible to keep a native animal as a pet.

Possessing or rehabilitating a native animal without authority is illegal under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and can lead to prosecution.

If an injured, sick or orphaned native animal is found, WIRES can be contacted on 1300 094 737.

Hogbin Drive has an exclusion fence and if members of the public notice gaps, fallen trees and other damage, they can contact the City of Coffs Harbour.

By Andrew VIVIAN