New research published in PLOS One shows the koala bear population is in decline--and it's because of humans.<br />According to CNN, a number of human-driven stressors are depressing koalas' immune systems, making them more susceptible to disease.<br />Human encroachment, or farming land previously occupied by koalas, is a major factor. So is climate change, which is robbing the landscape of water and trees.<br />CNN reports climate change is also contributing to the intensity of widespread bushfires in Australia, as seen in the record-breaking blazes of 2019 and 2020.<br />World Wide Fund for Nature - Australia is trying to double koala numbers-- in part by planting seeds to grow more trees that grow koala food.
