Gumnut babies are fictional characters created by Australian author May Gibbs in her children's books. They are small, whimsical beings that live in the Australian bush and are often depicted as having little bodies resembling gumnuts, the seed pods of eucalyptus trees. These characters are known for their playful adventures and interactions with various animals and plants in their natural habitat. The stories featuring gumnut babies celebrate the beauty of the Australian landscape and its unique flora and fauna. The characters, including Snugglepot and Cuddlepie, embody the spirit of childhood curiosity and imagination, making them beloved figures in Australian literature.