The koala is the Australian marsupial that spends most of its time eating eucalyptus leaves and sleeping in trees.
Koalas are arboreal animals found mainly in eastern and southeastern Australia. Their diet consists chiefly of leaves from selected eucalyptus species, although they do not eat every eucalyptus tree available. Their specialized digestive system helps process leaves that are fibrous and contain defensive chemicals.
A koala’s low-energy lifestyle is a direct consequence of this diet. Adults commonly sleep for about 18 to 22 hours daily, conserving energy while digesting food. Their hands and feet have strong claws and opposable digits that help them grip branches.
Koalas are often called “koala bears,” but they are not bears. They are marsupials, and females raise a tiny young koala, called a joey, in a pouch. Habitat loss, disease, heat, drought, and bushfires affect many populations.