Scientific Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Mammalia |
| Order | Diprotodontia |
| Family | Macropodidae |
| Genus | Macropus |
| Species | Macropus and Osphranter |
Kangaroo Description
- The kangaroo is the native animal of Australia.
- Kangaroos are the world’s largest marsupials.
- They are the only mammals that move through hopping.
- Kangaroos can survive days without drinking.
- Kangaroos can maintain a speed of 42 kilometers per hour for 2 kilometers.
- They will avoid the hottest hours by resting in shades.
- They are remarkable swimmers.
- Kangaroos have large pouch where they keep joeys safe for almost a year.
- It is an iconic animal in Australia.
- They have excellent hearing sense and vision.
Size & Weight
Adults:
- HEAD-BODY-LENGTH: 48–65 cm
- WEIGHT: (Males) 7.2 kg (16 lb) (Females) 5.9 kg (13 lb)
- TAIL: 60–74 cm
- SHOULDER HEIGHT: 2 m (6 ft 7 in)
Habitat
Grasslands, tropical rainforests
Range
New Guinea, northeastern Queensland, Central Australian Desert
Diet
Grasses, leaves
Species
Reproduction
1 joey
Gestation Period
31–36 days
Weaning Period
180–320 days
Sexual Maturity
- 20 – 24 months (Male)
- 15 – 20 months (Female)
Population
25,000,000
Lifespan
- 6 years (wild)
- 20 years (captivity)
Speed
- AVERAGE: 20–25 km/h (12–16 mph)
- MAXIMUM: 70 km/h (43 mph)
Baby Name
Joey
Group Name
Mob
Group Size
10 individuals
Predators
Tasmanian tiger, marsupial lion, wedge-tailed eagles, feral cats, feral dogs
Call
Hisses, squeaks, coughs
Behavior
Nocturnal, social
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Learn more: Kangaroo Facts for Kids
