Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) A wild koala climbing a tree in Australia. (more) Are Koalas Aggressive? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/Are-Koalas-Aggressive Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.
External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Aug 28, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Koalas are not aggressive by nature, and they usually avoid humans and other potential threats. There are exceptions, however, such as when a koala is startled or is approached during the mating season or when it is injured or distressed. In these instances, a koala may hiss, snarl, or grunt as a warning or even bite or lash out with its claws, which can inflict significant harm when used as a means of defense. Koalas are characteristically calm animals, owing in part to a low-energy lifestyle fueled by a nutrient-poor eucalyptus diet. As a result, they tend to conserve energy ...(100 of 142 words)
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