The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has all of the "koala-fications" to talk about three of our fuzziest residents... Queensland koalas, Katy, Kora, and Koen! 

Fun Facts about Koalas

• Koalas inhabit forests typically dominated by various species of eucalyptus trees, from which they get most of their nutrition. These leaves are highly toxic, but koalas have bacteria in their stomach that allows them to digest the toxins.
• Koalas conserve energy by moving slowly and sleeping up to 18 hours each day.
• There are only two species of koalas, Northern and Southern. Northern, also known as Queensland koalas, are now listed as an endangered species due to habitat loss from the wildfires in 2019. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's collaboration with other zoos and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan are critical in helping to save this species. 

Let's meet the koalas in the care of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium!

Katy

Katy was born on November 5, 2015, and arrived at the Columbus Zoo in 2017 when she was two years old. Since then, Katy has been a wonderful mother to two offspring, female koala Ellin (who moved to another zoo last year as part of a breeding recommendation from the SSP), and Kora, her current baby. Point koala keeper, Emily Grumney, said, "Katy can be quite sassy towards her keepers, but she is the most patient and kind mother to her babies."

Kora

Kora, Katy's current baby, was born on May 2, 2022. Contrary to her older sister, Kora is described as quite feisty!  At only six pounds, this young koala also started showing more independence from Katy earlier than her big sister. Grumney said, "The differences between Katy's two joeys shows that, even in a species that sleeps the majority of the day, each joey is different and has unique personality traits." 

Koen

Koen is the Zoo's newest koala resident! He was born on April 3, 2021, and joined the Columbus Zoo family in December 2022 following a SSP breeding recommendation with Katy. He was then viewable to the public in spring 2023. His keepers describe Koen as a very sweet and friendly koala who loves exploring.

Koen is currently the only male koala in our care. Grumney explained, "Male koalas have a scent gland in the center of their chest. They use it to claim territory out in the wild and attract potential mates. They also bellow to attract females and warn other males. Bellows can be heard up to 18 miles away."

Koen is growing up before our eyes, and he has just started to bellow and gain his scent! 

In the heart of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the enchanting world of Queensland koalas comes to life through the endearing personalities of Katy, Kora, and Koen. These three not only embody the charm and uniqueness of their species but also serve as a reminder of the critical role we play in preserving their fragile ecosystem.

From their eucalyptus-filled habitats to their leisurely naps, koalas captivate our hearts with their fascinating way of life. The dedication of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, alongside collaborative efforts with other zoos and the Species Survival Plan, stands as a beacon of hope for the endangered Queensland koalas. Through these partnerships, we not only learn about these incredible creatures but also contribute to their conservation, ensuring that these gentle marsupials continue to thrive in our world.

Visit the Zoo's Australia and the Islands Region    Learn More about Koalas Read about Koala Kora's first birthday