Koala Facts and Conservation

Koalas, often mistaken for bears, are marsupials with unique features like six opposable thumbs and a specialized diet of eucalyptus leaves. They sleep up to 22 hours a day due to their low-nutrition diet. Koalas face threats from habitat loss and require conservation efforts to prevent extinction.

What is a common misconception about koalas?

• They are amphibians.

• They are a type of bear.

• They are birds.

• They are reptiles.

What is unique about the koala's pouch?

• It is only present in male koalas.

• It is used for storing food.

• It is located on their back.

• It opens towards the bottom.

How many opposable thumbs do koalas have?

• Seven

• Six

• Five

• Four

What is the purpose of the fused second and third toes on koalas' feet?

• For catching prey.

• For swimming.

• For grooming their fur.

• For climbing trees.

What is the primary component of a koala's diet?

• Insects

• Grass

• Bamboo leaves

• Eucalyptus leaves

How do koalas process the toxic chemicals in eucalyptus leaves?

• With their kidneys.

• With a close-ended digestive organ called a caecum.

• With a specialized liver.

• With their saliva.

Why do koalas sleep up to 22 hours a day?

• To avoid predators.

• Because of their low-nutrition diet and sluggish metabolism.

• To stay cool in the heat.

• Because they are nocturnal.

What physical adaptation helps koalas sleep comfortably in trees?

• Large ears

• Webbed feet

• Curved spines and tail-less rears padded with cartilage and thick fur

• Long tails

What has caused a drastic reduction in koala habitats since the early 1900s?

• Increased rainfall

• Urbanization, droughts, and forest fires

• Changes in eucalyptus tree species

• Introduction of new predators

What are some of the conservation efforts to protect koalas?

• Introducing new predators

• Designating and protecting koala habitat

• Building more roads

• Increasing urbanization