Koalas have a specialised dental structure. A fascinating consequence is the ability to estimate a koala’s age by examining patterns of tooth wear. In other words, we can tell how old a koala is by checking their teeth.
Koalas process millions of tough eucalyptus leaves over their lifetimes. Due to this, their incisors, premolars, and molars inevitably show gradual signs of erosion and flattening.
Young koalas display sharp, unworn cusps and clearly defined ridges. However older koalas have teeth that are smoothed and shortened. Furthermore, very old koalas may even be missing some teeth which is a testament to decades of continuous grinding. By analysing the extent of this dental wear, experienced wildlife carers can make an accurate assessment of a koala’s age. While this method is not infallible, it is used with photo documentation to provide important age information for understanding our koalas. This documentation allows research to confirm ages that have been determined. As a result, the method is reinforced through collaboration.
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.
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