Koala

In this fascinating story of the koala, the ecology, behavior, and history of this extraordinary animal are explored, as well as ongoing threats to its existence, such as disease and habitat loss, and the controversial debate about how to best manage the populations of Australia's favorite marsupial. Tracing its origins from a peaceful relationship with Aborigines to Europeans valuing only its fur to its rightful place an Australian icon, this investigation shows the resilient and adaptive nature of the koala--described by many as a triumph of evolution. Today its homeland is compromised, and the creature is endangered, and this remarkable recollection of its life stands as a testament to its necessary survival.

Stephen Jackson has worked in the wildlife industry for the last 17 years as both a zoo keeper and a sanctuary curator. He is the award-winning author of Australian Mammals and Biology of Australian Possums and Gliders.

AcknowledgementsIntroduction1. From the (under) ground up? Evolution and relationships2. How the koala lost its tail: Aboriginal Dreamtime3. Coolah, koala or sloth? Discovery by Europeans4. Finicky feeders: Koala ecology5. Time to sleep: Koala behaviour6. Koalas as ambassadors: Zoos and tourism7. Creation of an icon: From cartoon character to chocolate bar8. Island dilemma: The politics and costs of managing koalas9. Open season: The koala fur trade10. Habitat loss chaos: Threats to the koala11. Conservation controversy: The highs and lows Appendix: Koalas in zoos around the worldNotes and sourcesIndex