The Kangaroo

The iconic Australian animal, the Kangaroo has large powerful hind legs and very large feet – which helps them make leaps to move round. They have long muscular tail – so they can keep their balance and a small head.

Kangaroos use hopping as a means of movement as there large feet don’t allow them to walk properly. Kangaroos can reach speeds of up to 70km/h. This fast and energy-efficient method of travel has evolved because of the need to regularly cover large distances in search of food and water, rather than the need to escape predators.

The Kangaroo is a very important animal for the Australian Aborigines, particularly for its meat and bones. The Kangaroo is also a very important aspect of Aboriginal dreaming stories and ceremonies.

Kangaroos are shy and retiring by nature, and in most circumstances present no real threat to humans. However, Kangaroos often collide with motor vehicles as they hop across the country - side. This can be both very dangerous for the Kangaroo and the vehicle.

Kangaroos are very much a part of Australian popular culture, and have been featured on coins, emblems and logos as well as on the Australian coat of arms. They have also been used as a mascot for Australian sporting teams and commonly feature in films, television and as toys and Australian souvenirs around the world.