Red Kangaroo

The red kangaroo is the largest marsupial in the world and one of Australia’s most iconic animals. Males can grow over two metres tall and are known for their reddish-brown fur, while females are typically smaller and can appear more greyish-blue in colour, especially in the eastern part of the country where conditions aren't as arid. 

Red kangaroos are built for the outback. Their powerful hind legs and large feet allow them to travel long distances with energy-efficient hopping, which can reach speeds of over 60km/h. Their long, muscular tail is used for balance while moving and acts like a fifth limb when standing or walking slowly.

They are most active during the cooler parts of the day, early morning and late afternoon, spending the hottest hours resting in the shade. Red kangaroos are herbivores, feeding on grasses and other vegetation. Like cows, they can regurgitate food and chew it again to help with digestion, which is useful for extracting nutrients in dry environments.

Male red kangaroos are sometimes called “boomers” and may fight for dominance by “boxing”, using their forearms to grapple and their legs to kick, often leaning back on their tails for balance.

Females have a pouch where their tiny joey develops after birth. A joey stays in the pouch for about eight months and continues to nurse for several more months after emerging. Red kangaroos can pause their pregnancy during drought conditions, delaying development until conditions improve, a survival trait called embryonic diapause.

Red kangaroos are found throughout most of inland Australia and are well adapted to hot, dry climates. Their ability to conserve water and tolerate extreme heat helps them thrive in areas where other animals might struggle.