News Animals

A common kitchen tool could help koala conservation

Scientists collected DNA left by the marsupials using cheesecloth and a fan

A koala in a tree

Koala populations are declining. To track the species in their natural habitats, scientists in Australia are turning to airborne DNA.

Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images

By Kristel Tjandra

Known for their fluffy ears, round faces and big black noses, koalas spend most of their time snoozing in the canopies of eucalypt forests. Their penchant for perching high up and moving very little makes these Australian icons difficult to trace.