Many marsupials have become Aussie icons, such as kangaroos, koalas and wombats, yet we still need to pay more attention to this amazing group of animals, experts argue.

Engaging and scientifically accurate children’s books on Australian animals are sorely lacking. Fostering more collaboration between authors and scientists can enrich children’s literature.

Australia hosts a dizzying array of venomous creatures — including spiders, snakes, jellyfish, octopuses, ants, bees and even platypuses. But why do so many Australian animals wield this ...