One of the words everyone thinks of when they hear “Australia” is “koala.” The Australian government is trying to decide whether or not to admit the national icon onto the endangered species list.

Currently, koalas are listed as vulnerable under state legislation in Queensland and New South Wales. In a state inquiry last year, it was estimated that there could be as few as 42,000 koalas left in the country.

“I think it is really sad because there are so many animals already endangered or extinct,” said Joseph Vaz, 9.

Cars are a big problem for koalas. On average, four koalas are admitted every week to Australia Zoo and Wildlife Hospital.

Although the koala population is noticeably declining, Australian Environmental Minister Tony Burke has delayed the listing decision for a second time.

“I need ten more weeks to consider new information from the Threatened Species Scientific Committee on where the koala is under greatest threat,” said Burke in an interview with CNN.

“I would hate for koalas to go extinct. They are so cute!” said Emily Hart, 9.

Although Australia may not consider koalas endangered, the United States government has declared them a threatened species. To help save the koalas, donate to the Australia Koala Foundation