Koala

Koala, common name for arboreal marsupial animal that in appearance somewhat resembles the toy teddy bear, and in habits somewhat resembles a sloth. The koala reaches a length of 60 to 85 cm (24 to 33 in) and has a maximum life span of 13 to 18 years. It has a large, round head with large, round, furry ears and a stout body covered with thick ashy-gray fur. The animal has a vestigial tail. Its legs are short; its feet are large, and each has five toes, two of which are opposable to the other three. Each toe bears a strong claw. The female bears one young at a time. The young koala is then kept in the marsupial pouch for about six months, after which time the female carries it upon her back until it is half grown.

Koalas are found only in eucalyptus forests of eastern Australia. The animals frequent high eucalyptus trees, feeding on the leaves and flowers of certain species of eucalyptus, as well as on mistletoe and box leaves. The animal is lethargic and often remains in the same tree for days. The males are more active than the females and feed during the day; the females sleep all day and feed at night. Koalas sleep curled up on the limbs of trees, firmly grasping the limbs with their feet. The animal does not relax its hold even when it is mortally wounded by gunfire. Koalas were formerly killed for their soft, thick fur. They are now protected by law in Australia. They are so sedentary that they will not run off, even when kept in unfenced eucalyptus regions, as they are in several Australian parks.

Scientific classification: The koala makes up the family Phascolarctidae. It is classified as Phascolarctos cinereus.

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