Koala bears are the latest animals to be added to a growing list of creatures scientists say are threatened due to climate change. Koalas, who make their homes in Australia's trees, eat eucalyptus leaves which could potentially become inedible in the near future thanks to the effects of global warming.

Carbon dioxide present in the air breaks down nutrients that naturally occur in eucalyptus leaves and boosts a natrually occuring toxin, also known as tannins. As a result, the amount of protein in the leaves has dropped significantly and the bears are turning to eucalyptus that does not have comparable nutritional value.

"What we're seeing, essentially, is that the staple diet of these animals is being turned to leather," Australian National University science professor Bill Foley was quoted as saying in the Weekend Australian. "Life is set to become extremely difficult for these animals."

» Reuters Environment