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Koala

  • Conservation Status Endangered
  • Distribution Koalas live in forests and bushland in Eastern and South Eastern Australia.
  • Life Span 10-12 years
  • Gestation Approx 35 days

Visit Australia's Iconic Koalas

Although many mistakenly call them 'koala bears', Koalas are actually marsupials – meaning they carry their young in their pouch. These arboreal creatures eat about 500g-1kg of Eucalyptus leaves per day.

Australia has nearly 900 native Eucalyptus species; however, the Koala uses its sensitive nose to detect the 30-40 species they enjoy. Their low energy diet of eucalyptus leaves means they have very little energy, so they will often spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping.

Koala sitting relaxed in a tree, blurred trees and blue sky in the background

Fun Fact

Currumbin Wildlife Hospital treats over 500 sick or injured koalas every year. With our hospital viewing deck, you can go see animals being treated everyday by our amazing vet team.

Go to the Koala info page
A koala clings to a tree next to a table where two adults and two children sit outdoors, eating breakfast and smiling.

See Koalas

F14, F15, R8 & T7

Anytime

11.45am Koala Nursery Keeper Talk

Get Up Close

Dad holding a very happy daughter patting a big Koala held by a wildlife keeper. It is night time and the Koala is looking inquisitively at the dad, his girl is smiling with joy

Koalas by Twilight

Come on an unforgettable evening starting with a personal, up-close Koala pat & chat. Then, wander into Astra Lumina - a magical night walk where lights and soundscapes transform bushland after dark. Arrival drink and canapés included.

Limited spaces per night. Fridays & Saturdays only.

Find Out More
See other koala encounters

See More Animals

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Jingeri – Hello

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the greater Yugambeh language region, the Country on which Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital are situated today. We recognise their continuing connections to the land, sky, waters (waterways), and wildlife. We thank them for caring for this Country and its ecosystems.

We celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and we pay our respect to Elders past and present.

Birds
A vibrant red and orange bird