Kangaroos are big then you think! Red kangaroos can be as tall as a grown-up (up to 6 feet or 1.8 meters).They have soft fur all over their body. It can be red, gray, or brown. They have a long, strong tail that helps them balance. Female kangaroos have a pouch on their belly to carry their babies. They have very strong back legs for jumping. Their front legs are much smaller and look like arms. They have big eyes to see danger. Their ears can move in different directions to hear better.They can jump really far - up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) in one hop! They can't walk backward easily.
Kangaroos live only in Australia and nearby islands. They can live in many different areas like grasslands, forests, and even deserts. Some kangaroos like open plains, while others prefer bushland. They can live in hot, dry places and also in cooler forest areas. They don't like very cold weather. Kangaroos don't have a fixed home. They move around to find food and water. They often live in groups called mobs.
Kangaroos are herbivores, which means they only eat plants. They love to eat grass. They also eat leaves, tree bark, and some fruits. They graze on grass like cows do. They often eat early in the morning or late in the day when it's cooler. They can regurgitate their food and chew it again, like cows. Kangaroos don't prey on other animals, but they help spread plant seeds when they eat.
Dingoes, large eagles, and sometimes crocodiles might eat kangaroos. Their powerful legs let them hop away from danger quickly. They can go for long periods without drinking water. Their fur color helps them blend in with the dry grass and trees. They can use their strong legs to kick at enemies. They can also use their sharp claws to defend themselves. They can swim well if they need to. Their excellent hearing helps them detect danger. Mothers carry their babies (called joeys) in their pouch to keep them safe. Living in mobs helps them spot danger more easily. One kangaroo will often thump its foot to warn others of danger.