Chris Tom, Buckeyes Abroad marketing intern, reveals the “adorable” animal found on Magnetic Island:

Magnetic Island is a small island off the coast of Townsville, Australia with under 2,500 permanent residents. Within a World Heritage listed area, this 20-square-mile island is breathtakingly beautiful. Affectionately referred to as Maggie by the locals, this island is home to the largest koala population in the world.

Approximately 12.5 miles of walking trails crisscross the island. On our free day, some friends and I explored the Forts Walk near the turn-off to Radical Bay. This windy trail led us through a eucalyptus forest, around old World War II bunkers and gun emplacements and on top of a ridge that overlooked the vast ocean. This area is known for koalas seen in trees along the trail. And sure enough, we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of not one, but two koalas in their native habitat.

At first I was surprised to see that the koalas remained motionless in the forks of gum trees. I later learned that koalas can sleep around 18 hours a day. They also have two thumbs on each hand and get most of their water from the leaves they eat. And contrary to urban legends, koalas do not get intoxicated from eating the eucalyptus leaves.

I must say, the koalas were adorable and worth the hour hike. My only regret is not having enough time to explore the rest of the trails on the island.