What is a drop bear?
A drop bear is a fictional Australian animal described in a popular joke as a large, aggressive relative of the koala that drops from trees onto unsuspecting tourists. Australians use the story to tease visitors.
According to the tale, drop bears lurk in eucalyptus trees and ambush people walking below. Locals may offer silly tips to avoid attacks, such as spreading Vegemite behind your ears or speaking with an Australian accent.
The joke plays on Australia's reputation for dangerous wildlife, making it easy for visitors to believe.
In popular culture
The Australian Museum once published a mock article about drop bears on its website, describing them with tongue-in-cheek scientific detail.
Drop bears have appeared in advertisements, television shows and souvenirs. They are part of a tradition of tall tales in Australian culture, similar to the American jackalope.
Interestingly, scientists have studied a real extinct marsupial lion, Thylacoleo carnifex, which was a powerful predator able to climb trees. Some people jokingly suggest it as the inspiration for drop bears. Koalas themselves are harmless, though they can scratch if handled.