Are Kangaroos dangerous? Before drawing a conclusion, it is important to understand their behavior and unique instincts. They are native to Australia and Papua New Guinea.
These majestic marsupials belong to the family Macropodidae, which translates to “big foot”. Indeed, this is the best descriptor for their powerful hind legs which they use for hopping. Kangaroos are the national symbol of Australia and have cultural significance.
Kangaroos are classified into four main species:
1. Australian Iconic the Red Kangaroo
The scientific name of Red Kangaroo is Macropus rufus, the largest of all kangaroo species and a symbol of Australia. It is also the mascot for Qantas Airlines.
Red Kangaroos are famous for their remarkable ability to thrive in arid conditions present in every Australian state except Tasmania. They are capable of enduring the challenging weather of the Red Centre. Red Kangaroo can grow up to 8 feet long. The Red Kangaroos have strong tail that can weigh as much as 200 pounds.
The Unique Habitat of Red Roos
Red kangaroos have the capability to dwell in arid and semi-arid regions of Western and Central Australia. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in diverse atmosphere, from grassy nesting grounds to dry scorching desserts. Additionally, with their strong and large feet, they can travel long distances in search of water and food. They can hop at the speed up to 35 miles per hour.
Behavorial Aspects of Red Kangaroos
They are very social by nature; they form groups for their own safety and self-defence against the potential dangers like dingoes. They are very hyperactive during the crack of dawn and dusk, feeding primarily on grass and leaves, additionally they have high water retention allowing their bodies to survive with hydration for extended periods, as they consume most of their moisture from the vegetation.
2. Eastern Grey Kangaroos
The scientific name of Eastern Grey Kangaroos is Macropus giganteus. They are commonly present in the eastern regions of Australia. Just like Red Kangaroos they also typically gather in groups of 10 to 12.
They can grow as large as 7.5 foot or (2.3 meters) from head to tail. Their light grey fur and huge hind legs are quite striking, especially since these legs can reach up to 6 feet in length.
Habitat
Eastern Grey Kangaroos generally rest during the day in shaded areas feed from early dusk until mid-morning. Because of their preference for open habitat such as woodlands and their willingness to live near people, they are often seen where human settlements adjoin bushlands, but they are also found living in a variety of environments such as forests and grasslands.
They are distributed from Queensland to Tasmania, which makes them one of the most common kangaroo species in Australia.
Behavioral Traits
Eastern grey kangaroos are natural grazers, feeding on grasses, herbs, and shrubs. They breed all year around with birth rates peaking in the summer months.
3. Are Western Grey Kangaroos dangerous?
The scientific name of Western Grey Kangaroo is Macropus fuliginosus. These kangaroos are slightly smaller than both the red and eastern grey kangaroos, typically having a maximum growth about 4 to 5 feet tall. They use four limbs and tail to walk at lower speeds. Interestingly, they can swim if necessary.
Habitat
They live in southern and Western Australia. Western grey kangaroos thrive in a variety of environments, including open woodlands and grasslands. They live near water sources, which are very important factors for their survival in drier regions. They prefer to rest in warmer weather conditions and get active when the weather cools down particularly, dawn and dusk times.
Behavorial Traits
Western grey kangaroos are not dangerous in general. Infact they are highly social. They structure themselves in groups and subgroups. They perform feeding activities together which primarily includes wobbling on grasses, leaves, and fruits, hence playing a vital role in their ecosystems as natural grazers. Despite their size, they are very agile and jumpy, they hold ability to navigate their habitats with ease due to their powerful legs.
Find more interesting facts about Western Grey Kangaroos
4. Antilopine Kangaroo
Antilopine kangaroos primarily live in regions such as Arnhem Land and the Northern territory. They usually live in the open grounds in the wilderness and grassy plains where food and shelter are their utmost necessity.
Habitat
Antilopine kangaroos primarily live in regions such as Arnhem Land and the Northern territory. They usually live in the open grounds in the wilderness and grassy plains where food and shelter are their utmost necessity.
Behavioral Aspects
They are social animals and often move around in small groups. Antilopine Kangaroos are not aggressive and dangerous. They feed on grasses, leaves, and shrubs, making them important contributors to their habitats. Their agility and speed allow them to evade predators effectively.
Antilopine Kangaroos thrive as socially connected species among its kind but in a rather smaller group. They feed on grasses, leaves, and shrubs; thus, they are a major contributor of ecosystem, additionally very agile and smart species that they can fend for themselves naturally.
Incidents of Dangerous Kangaroo Attacks in Australia
Generally, Kangaroos are friendly animals and not dangerous. However, they possess the ability to cause serious harm and injuries. Wildlife experts advise caution against approaching an agitated kangaroo from the front as they may exhibit aggressive behaviour. Particularly if they have been injured in a vehicle collision or have engaged in a confrontation with another kangaroo.
A decade-long study in Australia revealed that only 40 incidents of human attacks were reported. According to the Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH) less than 5 people a year are treated for kangaroo-related injuries in New South Wales. Whereas several thousand people seek medical treatment for injuries sustained from domestic pets every year.
In 2022, a tragic event took place in Redmond, Western Australia, where a 77-year-old man succumbed to injuries inflicted by a kangaroo that he had been keeping as a pet in his home.
How to Tackle the situation when Encountered by a Dangerous Kangaroo
If you find yourself in a dangerous situation threatened by a Kangaroo that seem to be dangerous, it’s best to move away from it. Try to avoid Kangaroo’s attention and keep your arms and head low. Wait for the Kangaroo to leave the area before you proceed. If possible, move away in a crouched or crawling position. In the event of an attack, drop to the ground and protect your face and throat. Try to stay calm and still until the Kangaroo moves away.
Please use the link below for some more useful tips on how to handle angry kangaroos shared by the experts.
Frightening kangaroo encounter prompts wildlife carers to share tips on dealing with angry roos – ABC News
Conservation and a safe future for Kangaroos
Kangaroos have a complex social structure. The live in groups known mobs. Within each mob, there are several females, males and joey along with the dominant male. The dominant male often becomes the target during attacks, as being the protector and breeder for the group. If the alpha kangaroo gets killed the entire mob is put at risk.
According to the Kangaroo Management Taskforce, each of the Australian states has its own legislative framework for protection of kangaroos. For instance, Kangaroos are protected in Victoria under the Wildlife Act 1975.
Kangaroo populations face significant threats, despite their resilience. These threats include but not limited to habitat loss, climate change, and hunting. Conservation groups throughout Australia work tirelessly to safeguarding these iconic animals work tirelessly to protect these iconic animals through dedicated initiatives.