Koalas are small, furry, cute-looking animals that attract adults and children. Perhaps that is why children stay enthusiastic to know more about these marsupials from Australia. So, here we bring you some interesting koala facts for kids. Learn about how koalas are related to wombats, their average lifespan, height, weight, habitat, food, and socialization skills. It also gives you an insight into their distinctive appearance and survival skills.
Are Koalas Bears?
No, koalas are not bears. Like kangaroos, koalas carry their young ones in their pouches (1). As they resemble living teddy bears, they are mistakenly called ‘koala bears.’ However, koalas are marsupials, and their scientific name is Phascolarctos cinereus (2).
Where Are Koala Bears Found?
Koalas are natives of Eastern and Southeastern Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia (1). The fascinating arboreal and cuddly-looking animals usually live in open eucalyptus woodlands. Their tailless, stout body, yellow eyes, black round leathery nose, a huge and round head, large fluffy ears make them look unique (2).
What Do Koala Bears Eat?
Koalas are herbivores and feed on the leaves of certain types of eucalyptus trees. Their daily diet includes around 1.3kg (3lb) of eucalyptus leaves (3). The koalas have a long intestinal pouch and cecum, which is two meters or seven feet long. It nurtures beneficial, symbiotic bacteria to break down the toxic substances and tannins present in the leaves to help their digestion. They also eat mud or dirt in intervals to help digest eucalyptus leaves (3). The strong claws and toes help them grasp the branches. As they are picky eaters, it sometimes becomes difficult for koalas to find food on their own (1). Also because their diet is low in nutrients and provides less energy, koalas sit or sleep for long hours in tree forks. They sleep for up to 18 hours a day (1).
38 Interesting Facts About Koalas For Kids
Here are some intriguing facts about koalas.
