Although sometimes known as the native bear, the koala is in fact no relation to the bear family. The koala is a nocturnal, tree dwelling marsupial mammal, which feeds almost exclusively on the leaves of a few species of eucalypt. Koala babies are only about 19mm when born, but they can still climb into mother's warm pouch, where they stay for about five to six months, after which time they spend another three to four months clinging to her back with their strong claws while she travels from tree to tree or when she is resting, cuddled up in her arms.
Koalas are very fussy eaters, feeding almost entirely on eucalypt leaves.
Koalas seldom drink, as they obtain enough water from the diet of leaves. The Koala sleeps in the fork of a tree for most of the day and moves about and feeds at night. It is most active just after sunset. The Koala can sleep for up to 20 hours per day, mainly because their diet is so energy poor. Sleeping allows them to conserve their energy.