Australia is a continent that teems with bewildering diversity. Its landscapes stretch from arid deserts to lush rainforests. As a result, its wildlife is unlike anything else on Earth. There are delights and surprises at every turn. Among the most enchanting of these creatures are the marsupials. These mammals give birth to babies as tiny, vulnerable embryos. After birth they continue their development snug and secure inside a mother’s pouch.
Outside Australia they are still often called a “koala bear.” Despite their teddy-bear appearance, koalas are not bears at all! They are pure marsupial—no closer to bears than kangaroos or possums. Their resemblance to a stuffed toy is purely superficial.
Koalas possess a highly specialised digestive system for breaking down eucalyptus toxins and live on a diet purely of gum leaves.
The term “koala bear” originated with early European invaders in Australia during the late 18th century. Their fluffy ears, round face, and cuddly appearance reminded them of the bears they were familiar with from home. As a result, they began referring to the animal as a “bear”. Despite knowing better, we still hear this today.
Katrina says:
Join the Colony and get involved
Koalas who stay around at Koala Gardens end up in lots of photos and videos. Read more about them here
You can become part of the Koala Gardens Colony by adopting any of the wild koalas here. You can also become a Patron, and one level has an adoption option.
Come and discuss Koala Gardens and all things koala on Discord where we hold lots of interesting and often in-depth discussions there. Lots of fun!
You will become part of the family and help provide much needed koala habitat.
You can also follow Katrina and the Koalas on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Koala Gardens publishes a small number of delightful illustrated children’s books in the The Adventures of Mist series. Check out the beautifully engaging and educational design. Our mission is to help children to “Fall in love with Nature”.
You can even find some great Koala Gardens gifts over at Redbubble where there is huge range of designs on an even bigger range of items.
Alternatively, you can find quick access links to everything Koala Gardens via Link Tree.
Take a walk on the wild side Koala Tours
Coming to Northern NSW, Australia?
Book your Wild Koala Tour and immerse yourself in nature.