Native to Australia, koalas are tree-dwelling creatures well-known for their fluffy ears, large noses and sleepy behaviour. While commonly referred to as ‘koala bears,’ these beautiful animals are, in fact, marsupials. This means they carry and raise their young in a pouch, like kangaroos. Koalas are truly unique, so let’s find out more about their day-to-day life.

Where Can Koalas Be Found in the World?

Koalas live in the wild only in Australia, specifically along the eastern coasts, where eucalyptus forests and woodlands grow. The main regions where koalas live include Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. If you’re lucky enough to visit tourist hotspots such as the Great Ocean Road near Kennett River and Cape Otway, or You Yangs Regional Park near Melbourne, you might see koalas in their natural habitat. 

Koalas in the UK

Koalas aren’t native to the UK, so if you want to see one here, you’ll need to visit a zoo. Edinburgh Zoo and Longleat Safari Park are the only places in the UK where you can see these iconic marsupials and (of course), the environment is man made rather than natural.

The solitary, elusive nature of koalas is what makes these animals so special. Spending time in their presence and learning about their routine is a real privilege and one that should be valued.

Why Do Koalas Live in Eucalyptus Trees?

Koalas spend almost their whole lives in eucalyptus trees and this is wonderfully portrayed in stories such as Rachel Bright and Jim Field’s The Koala Who Could, which has now been transformed into a delightful stage show. This story tells the tale of Kevin the koala who loves his eucalyptus tree and doesn’t want to come down out of his comfort zone. But when disaster strikes, Kevin is forced to try something new. This cuddly koala book is all about self-discovery and being brave but it also draws on real facts about koalas.

Koalas love living in eucalyptus trees for many reasons. Firstly, eucalyptus leaves are the main food koalas eat. They barely consume anything else and can eat up to 500g of leaves every day. Their digestive system can uniquely detoxify the chemicals in the leaves. Koalas also get most of the water they need from these leaves. 

Eucalyptus trees offer plenty of shelter and protection. They allow koalas to rest and sleep away from ground predators such as dogs and snakes. Koalas even press their bodies against the tree trunks to stay cool on hot days. 

Discover The Koala Who Could 

It may be tricky to see a real koala in the UK, but why not head to your local theatre to see the stage adaptation of The Koala Who Could book instead? This charming production is currently touring the UK and is specifically aimed at children aged three and up. Book your tickets today and find out what happens to Kevin when his quiet life in the trees is disrupted.