Kangaroo Adaptations

Kangaroos are extraordinary animals that are able to successfully adapt to its environment in many different ways. Geographical and climate change in Australia have supposedly influenced kangaroos into what they have become today. Interestingly, it is believed that years ago, a kangaroo was similar in size and shape to a possum. The different species of kangaroo all have slightly different adaptations for their specific needs and varying habitats. Kangaroo adaptations can be divided into two separate categories, behavioural and structural adaptations.

• Behavioural Adaptations

E.g. 1 - If a kangaroo senses danger, they may use their hind legs to stamp on the ground, the vibrations sending a warning to the rest of their mob (group). This particular adaptation has probably been developed to ensure the safety of kangaroos from predators or hunters.

E.g. 2 - Kangaroos have also adapted to go for a significant amount of time without needing water. This animal is very efficient in utilising the water found in grasses, shrubs and other vegetation that makes up the majority of its diet.

E.g. 3 - During the summertime, when temperatures rise, red kangaroos lick their paws and coat them with saliva. Therefore, when air blows across their arms and paws, the saliva evaporates and carries away the body heat.

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• Structural Adaptations

E.g. 1 - The powerful tendons in a kangaroos hind legs give kangaroos the ability to hop great distances at a high speed. The ability to travel quickly is energy efficient and allows kangaroos to escape predators like humans, foxes and dingoes (a wild dog).

E.g. 2 - An Eastern Grey Kangaroo's tail is extremely powerful and around 4 feet in length. This helps with their balance while hopping and also as a stand when male kangaroos 'box' to defend themselves or to decide who gets to mate with a female.

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Above is a video of two male kangaroos boxing with each other. Notice how they use their tail for balance and kick with their hind legs as they are the most powerful part of their body. Fast forward to 2:40 for the start of the fight.

However, although kangaroos have been able to adapt to their environments, the desert and Australian outback continues to change and continues to be taken over by humans.