Koala

The Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is one of Australia’s most iconic and beloved native marsupials, known for its fluffy ears, large nose, and relaxed, tree-dwelling lifestyle. Found along the eastern and southeastern coasts of Australia, koalas inhabit eucalyptus forests where they feed almost exclusively on the leaves of select gum tree species. With a stout, tailless body covered in thick grey fur, they are superbly adapted for life in the trees—using their strong limbs and sharp claws to climb and grip branches. Koalas are mostly nocturnal and spend much of the day sleeping to conserve energy, as their diet is low in nutrition. Symbolic of Australia’s unique wildlife, the koala is both a cultural icon and a species of conservation concern due to habitat loss and environmental pressures.