Since some types of eucalyptus are toxic during certain seasons of the year, the cecum may also function to detoxify the food. Generally, koalas sniff and accept or reject each leaf they pick. Most of the water a koala needs is in the leaves that they eat. Even though koalas are common where they are found, they face problems shared with wildlife all over the world. The most pressing problem is loss of habitat.
Movement increases risk of predation by Australian wild dogs.
Perhaps even more important, scattered habitat may keep them from finding mates. Fortunately, many people all over the world know and love koalas. Concerned Australian citizens have formed groups to help koalas by planting trees and caring for those injured by domestic pets, highways or pesticides. The Australian government has strict laws to regulate exportation and hunting of koalas. International law also protects them by regulating trade of live koalas and koala products.