Phascolarctos cinereus

Koalas are solitary, nocturnal marsupials, spending most of their time in eucalyptus trees. They are known for their sedentary lifestyle, sleeping up to 20 hours a day to conserve energy due to their low-nutrient diet of eucalyptus leaves.

Koalas breed once a year, with females giving birth to a single joey that climbs into its mother's pouch to continue developing. The joey remains in the pouch for about six months before emerging to cling to its mother's back.

Koalas are easily recognized by their stout, tailless body, large head with round, fluffy ears, and a large nose. Their grey fur varies in color and density depending on their environment.

Koalas have been a part of the Australian ecosystem for millions of years, playing a crucial role in the cultural heritage and natural history of the continent. They became a symbol of Australia's unique wildlife and have been featured in Aboriginal myths and European settlers' accounts.

Koalas are currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, facing threats from habitat destruction, climate change, disease, and road accidents. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection, research on disease management, and the establishment of wildlife corridors to ensure their survival.