koala
 
Koala      Phascolarctos cinereus
     

koala.jpg
Photo: Unknown

 

Probably the most recognised marsupial in the world, the koala's status is still fairly common from northern Queensland through to Victoria.

Essentially arboreal, the Koala is a very agile climber, can jump, gallop whilst on the ground, and is a very strong swimmer.

The female has a rear opening pouch, and usually gives birth to a single young, which remains attached to one of 2 teats until about 5 months old, after which, baby is carried on mum's back until becoming fully independent at about 1 year old.

The male is much larger, more aggressive, and fiercely territorial. Rather vocal too.

Feeding almost exclusively on a diet of eucalypt leaves, the main threat to the Koala in this area is without doubt, loss of habitat due to urban coastal development.

Koalas are relatively safe up in the trees, but dog attack, and collision with motor vehicles, as these animals are forced to move on the ground between "islands" of trees, is seeing more and more Koalas coming into care.
 
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