Lazy Days Koala

Description:

The Koala or inaccurately "Koala Bear" as commonly referred to, is a native herbivorous marsupial animal and one of the worlds most iconic animal species, found nowhere else on earth except Australia. There is a common notion amongst visiting tourist that these lovely little creatures are plentiful throughout Australia and can be commonly seen perching in trees. Sadly this is not the case. Today Koalas are restricted to areas of Eastern Australia where there are eucalypt forests and woodlands. There are multiple threats now facing the Koala due to habitat fragmentation. The further pressures of climate change will only further restrict their precious habitat to the Eastern seaboard and coastal  areas where in turn you see the greatest population growth and urban development. In the Koala coastal populations where they face the greatest threats by urbanisation their numbers have declined a staggering 80% in the last 20 years. It is not unthinkable to be facing the future without them if the current rate of decline persists, even within the next 10 or 15 years.  

This beautiful chap was found lazying away the late afternoon in Noosa National Park. Surprisingly, he was quite active and moved around a lot, allowing me to capture this shot of him looking at me. (or so I’d like to think) I love the position he takes on the tree and how his large paws and huge claws hang down, emphasising the power and ability of this magnificent animal.  

Specifications:

Location - Noosa, Queensland, Australia

Aspect shown - Rectangle

Product Code: FP17002R

Camera Specifications: Canon EOS 7D Mark II, EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, Focal Length: 200mm, ISO 100, Manual, Exp: 1/400@f5.0