Koala
Phascolarctos cinereus
Overview
The koala is an arboreal herbivorous marsupial native to Australia. It is the only extant representative of the family Phascolarctidae and its closest living relatives are the wombats.
Fun Fact
Koalas sleep up to 20 hours a day because their eucalyptus diet provides very little energy and is hard to digest.
Physical Characteristics
Stout, tailless body with large head, round fluffy ears, and large spoon-shaped nose. They have fingerprints very similar to humans.
Behavior & Ecology
Mostly nocturnal and solitary. They are specialized climbers with two opposable digits on their front paws.
Diet & Hunting Strategy
They feed almost exclusively on eucalyptus leaves, which are toxic to most other animals.
Reproduction & Life Cycle
Joeys are born undeveloped and crawl into the mother's pouch, where they stay for about 6 months.
Human Interaction
An international symbol of Australia, beloved for their teddy-bear-like appearance.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Koala?
The scientific name of the Koala is Phascolarctos cinereus.
Where does the Koala live?
Eucalyptus woodlands along the eastern coast of Australia.
What does the Koala eat?
Herbivore (Folivore). They feed almost exclusively on eucalyptus leaves, which are toxic to most other animals.
How long does the Koala live?
The lifespan of the Koala is approximately 13-18 years..
