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Kangaroo

Australia's champion hopper that can't walk backward.

A real Kangaroo in the wild
🌿 Wild animal — not a pet! Kangaroos belong in the wild. This page is just for learning about an amazing animal.

Kangaroos bounce across Australia on springy back legs, using their thick tails for balance like a fifth leg. Moms carry their babies — called joeys — in a built-in belly pouch for months while they grow.

📋 Kangaroo at a glance

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Habitat
Australian grasslands & bush
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Size
Up to 200 lb (90 kg)
Speed
Hops at up to 35 mph
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Diet
Herbivore — grasses, shrubs
Lifespan
8–12 years in the wild
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Status
Least Concern

⚡ Superpower

One kangaroo hop can cover 25 feet — about the length of a school bus seat row — and they barely get tired.

🤩 Amazing Kangaroo facts

Kangaroos can't walk backward — their big feet and tail get in the way.

❓ Common questions about kangaroos

How big is a kangaroo?

Up to 200 lb (90 kg). Kangaroos can't walk backward — their big feet and tail get in the way.

Where do kangaroos live?

Kangaroos live in the wild: australian grasslands & bush. They are wild animals and are never kept as pets.

How long do kangaroos live?

Kangaroos typically live 8–12 years in the wild.

Can you keep a kangaroo as a pet?

No! Kangaroos are wild animals — they belong in the wild (australian grasslands & bush), and keeping one would be unsafe and usually illegal. If you love animals, check out our care guides for real pets your family can have.

Keep exploring! 🌍

Kangaroos are wild animals — here's what you can do next.

🎬 See kangaroos in action

Watch kid-friendly videos about kangaroos on YouTube.

▶ Watch Kangaroo videos on YouTube

More cool animals to explore