Special 'doors' designed to protect koalas from busy roads

More than 85 wild koalas tested the doors during the 12-month trial period

They're one of Australia's most famous animals but koalas often getting themselves into danger on roads and trainlines as they explore new habitats.

Now a city in Queensland on the east coast of Australia has taken a new approach to the problem.

They have introduced "doggy doors" along road systems where koalas are likely to attempt to cross.

The metal escape hatches are designed to allow the fluffy marsupials to get away from dangerous roads and rail lines, but not re-enter again as their clever design only opens one way.

Koalas are one of Australia's most famous animals

The contraption, officially called the Fauna Escape Hatch, was devised by Endeavour Veterinary Ecology (EVE), and was tested for 12 months in the City of Moreton Bay, just north of Brisbane.

"With more than 900,000 kilometres of roads across Australia, we urgently need solutions that allow koalas and other native wildlife to move safely between habitats,” EVE boss Michael Hornby said.

“Our deep knowledge of koala behaviour and habitat use has been key to this project. It excites us to know this device could have a real-world impact.”

Drivers are alerted to koala hot spots, but it is hoped the koala doggy doors will help reduce koalas dying on roads in Queensland.

Koalas often attempt to cross roads in search of mates and new habitats between July and December.

The mayor of Moreton Bay said they are already seeing positive results, despite only installing 16 of the doors so far.

“Although this trial has only just begun, we have already seen incredibly encouraging results," said Mayor Peter Flannery.