Drones equipped with with artificial intelligence could help better manage southeast Queensland's dwindling koala population.

Researchers from Queensland's University of Technology have developed a drone- driven program using thermal imaging and statistical modelling that can quickly scan an area for its koala population to better help with planning.

Koala numbers may be monitored from the air in Queensland. Credit:Noosa Koala Sightings/Facebook

"It allows to better estimate and better planning with more information about the number of koalas in an area. You may be able to make better predictions," project leader Felipe Gonzalez said from a site at Pimpama on the Gold Coast.

AAP

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