Koala: The Icon of Eucalyptus Forests
The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is a marsupial native to Australia, famous for its cuddly appearance and tree-dwelling lifestyle. Although not a steppe animal, koalas provide an interesting contrast to species adapted to grasslands. These marsupials are highly specialized, feeding almost exclusively on eucalyptus leaves, which provide both nutrition and hydration.
Koalas are nocturnal and spend most of their time resting, as their diet is low in energy. They have sharp claws and strong limbs for climbing trees, where they find safety and sustenance. Koalas live in social groups, with individuals marking their territories using scent glands on their chests.
Habitat destruction due to urbanization and climate change has drastically reduced koala populations. Conservation programs focus on habitat preservation, reforestation, and rehabilitation of injured koalas to ensure their survival.