Koala Book, The
It's no secret that koalas are some of the best-loved creatures  in the animal kingdom. Now for the first time, the koala's story is  portrayed in a large format with 160 striking photographs and  accompanying text.The Koala Bookdescribes the native forests before the onset of human  settlement. Only in some of the old-growth forests such as Wild Cattle  Creek can one catch a glimpse of how koalas might have lived. The lovable  koala's physical attributes are then discussed, covering everything from  its paws and claws to its backward opening pouch.Maps illustrate its population and range. The type of habitat that  supports the koala and the factors that determine where koalas occur are  also given. Sadly, its habitat has been decreased by 80% since the  encroachment of civilization.Interaction among themselves and with people, as well as the very  important issue of species endangerment and the need for increased  conservation efforts to save the koala, are covered. Written by The  Australian Koala Foundation, this book is an attempt to educate the  public as to the seriousness of the koala's predicament, while  celebrating its presence.Chapter 8 promotes the koala as a symbol for hope, conservation, and  other causes, providing countless examples of how the koala has been used  in the past for publicity, promotion, and advertising. Pretty enough to be a coffee table book, The Koala Book is much, much  more. Readers of all ages will find the wealth of information  stimulating, inspiring, and just plain fun. --From the Publisher