A hidden group of koalas has been discovered, with the use of thermal drones, for the first time in a remote area of the New South Wales Snowy Mountains.

Koalas are known to exist in parts of the high country , including at Numeralla, Dangelong, Kybeyan and Peak View.

But it appears their numbers are more extensive than previously thought, after eight koalas were sighted at Avonside, east of Jindabyne.

"It's become more than just a couple of animals sighted in one location," Local Land Services officer Kirrily Gould said.

" To have another population of koalas that's well separated from that area is significant. "

Drone sightings

Thermal drones found two koalas in Avonside in July 2024, before eight more were detected in July 2025 with the same technology.

Vision was recorded ac

See Full Page