The koala is perhaps Australia’s most iconic creature, best known for munching on eucalyptus leaves, rearing joeys in its forward facing pouch, and above all, for sleeping. But these tranquil seeming tree dwellers can show some surprising behaviors in their battle to survive.

Filmed in the tropics of Queensland, the rugged terrain of New South Wales and the forests of Cape Otway in Southern Victoria, Secret Life of the Koala explores how life for koalas is full of challenges, from would be predators, to human interference and a difficult diet.

With a sleepy approach to life, and with a diet consisting solely of toxic eucalyptus that are hard to digest, koalas have just a few waking hours each day. And while there are 700 varieties of eucalyptus in Australia, koalas are picky eaters and will eat less than 10% of these, which means they often need to find new trees to feed from.

These cuddly looking creatures are adapted to life up in the treetops: their padded bottoms enable them to sleep comfortably in the branches; dappled fur disguises them from predators; sharp claws and powerful upper bodies help them to shin up almost vertical trees; and their thick coats afford them protection whatever the weather.

(Amazing Animals Wild Life Of Koalas - Secret National Geographic Full Documentary)

Narrated by Shane Jacobson this documentary showcases the amazing dynamics within one extended family of koalas, told from the point of view of its youngest member, newborn joey Bruce.