Kangoeroes

Kangoeroes, or kangaroos, are marsupials native to Australia and, to a lesser extent, New Guinea. They belong to the family Macropodidae, which includes kangaroos, wallabies, wallaroos, and tree-kangaroos. Among the best known species are the red kangaroo, eastern grey kangaroo, western grey kangaroo, and antilopine kangaroo.

They are characterized by large hind legs, a long muscular tail, and small forelimbs. They move primarily by hopping, using their tail for balance. This saltatory locomotion allows efficient travel across open plains at speeds that can exceed 40 km/h.

Habitat varies from arid deserts to temperate woodland and forests, but all prefer open spaces with grasses. Diet is herbivorous, mainly grasses and leaves. They obtain much of their water from food and can survive dry periods without free water.

Reproduction is typical of marsupials: females have a pouch in which the newborn joey completes development after a short gestation of about 30-40 days. The joey may stay in the pouch for several months and can reach adulthood while a new embryo develops in diapause.

Socially, kangaroos form groups called mobs. Males may compete for females, and predators include dingoes and birds of prey. Most kangaroo species are not endangered, but some populations decline during drought or through habitat loss. Australia regulates hunting and protects native populations.