The organisation’s carers are usually distressed enough to see one or two joeys enter care.

In recent weeks that’s jumped to five and it has stretched Port Stephens Koalas resources.

“They’ve just swooped in and picked up ‘Dust’ off the ground,” care and rescue coordinator Simone Aurino said.

“Joeys aren’t on their mums all the time, they naturally have separation time, it’s part of their development.”

‘Gilchrist Jeff’ is another joey that has come into care.

“Again, it’s an interference issue,” Carmel Northwood said.

“With him it was to the point where people were picking him up and taking him home and he’s now got a developmental issue. If not weened properly, they get stressed and develop gas that can perforate their gut.”

If a koala or joey is distressed, the carers said people should call 0418 628 483.