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Koalas
"The teddy-bear like Koala isn't a bear at all. It's a marsupial which means
it has a pouch. The mother carries her tiny young in this protective pocket,
where she nurses them until they are strong enough to face the rigors of the
outside world.
The koala is a native of Australia and spends most of its time in the high
branches of the Eucalyptus tree which offers safety from predators and also
the major source of its diet - its leaves. The koala has strong, flexible
arms and legs that allow it to climb easily and jump from branch to branch
with agility. Its hand has five fingers, two of which are separated from the
others much like two thumbs, giving it a good climbing grip.
The winsome koala, which was first discovered in Australia in 1798, came close
to extinction in the early part of the 20th century when it was widely hunted
for its fur. Through the vigorous initiative of the Australian government the
animal is now protected but is facing a new threat to survival as a result of
disease and devastating loss of its natural habitat."
The koalas can be found after a short walk to the right from inside the San
Diego Zoo Entrance. For more information on the San Diego Zoo's conservation
work world wide, visit their website at: http://www.sandiegozoo.org If you're ever in San Diego, give
these cute guys a visit.
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