Kangaroos are captivating creatures, known for their incredible size and strength. If you’ve ever wondered how tall these majestic animals can grow, you’re in the right place. In this article, we will explore the heights of different kangaroo species and shed light on their varying statures.
The Red Kangaroo: Australia’s Largest Mammal
Let’s start with the red kangaroo, which is often considered Australia’s biggest mammal. These magnificent creatures can reach impressive heights of up to 1.8 meters (5.9 feet). Adult males typically measure between 1.3 and 1.6 meters long, while females range from 0.85 to 1 meter in length. The length of their tails adds another 0.65 to 0.85 meters for females and 1 to 1.2 meters for males.
The red kangaroo thrives in Central Australia, where it has adapted to the region’s heat and aridity. It’s important to note that the red kangaroo is the largest among its species, and other kangaroo species may have smaller statures.
The Eastern Grey Kangaroo: A Slightly Smaller Marvel
The eastern grey kangaroo, while slightly smaller than the red kangaroo, still commands attention. With a length ranging from 0.95 to 1.8 meters, this species is known for its significant size. The addition of their strong tails stretches their overall length by an extra 0.43 to 1.1 meters.
In terms of weight, the eastern grey kangaroo is lighter than its red counterpart. Females typically weigh between 17 and 40 kilograms, while males weigh between 50 and 66 kilograms. This disparity in size between males and females is known as sexual dimorphism, which is common among kangaroo species.
You can find the eastern grey kangaroo in several regions across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and southeastern South Australia, as well as along the eastern coastline of Australia. Parts of Tasmania are also home to the Tasmanian eastern grey kangaroo.
The Western Grey Kangaroo: A Notable Difference
When comparing the red kangaroo to the western grey kangaroo, the difference in size is immediately apparent. The western grey kangaroo is significantly smaller, with adult lengths ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 meters. When standing upright, they reach around 1.3 meters (4.3 feet) in height. Their tails measure 20 to 40 inches or 0.5 to 1 meter in length.
Similar to other kangaroo species, male western grey kangaroos are much larger than females. In fact, they can grow to be twice the size. The western grey kangaroo inhabits open woods, woodlands, and open scrub across southern regions of Western Australia, South Australia, and parts of New South Wales, Queensland, and western Victoria.
The Antilopine Kangaroo: A Relative of the Red Kangaroo
The antilopine kangaroo, though somewhat smaller, shares a close relationship with the red kangaroo. Male antilopine kangaroos can reach a height of 1.2 meters (4 feet), with an additional 0.9-meter (35-inch) tail. Conversely, female antilopines have a maximum length of 0.84 meters (33 inches), with tails contributing an extra 0.7 meters (28 inches) to their size. When standing, an antilopine kangaroo reaches a height of about 1.1 meters (3.6 inches).
These kangaroos can be found in Australia’s northern tropical woods, particularly in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Top End, and the Cape York Peninsula.
Kangaroos, Wallabies, and Wallaroos: Spotting the Differences
It’s worth noting that there are differences between kangaroos, wallabies, and wallaroos. Kangaroos are generally larger than wallabies, while wallaroos fall somewhere in between. The names “kangaroo” and “wallaby” mix to form “wallaroo,” which highlights their close kinship.
While this article focuses on kangaroos, it’s worth exploring the differences more thoroughly. If you’re interested, you can check out my post on this subject to learn more about the distinctions between kangaroos, wallabies, and wallaroos.
Wallabies: A Variety of Sizes
Among wallabies, the agile wallaby is the most prevalent in northern Australia and New Guinea. Females are slightly shorter than males, with males reaching heights of up to 0.85 meters (33 inches). Their maximum length is around 0.72 meters (28 inches), and their tails add an additional 0.6 to 0.8 meters (23 to 31 inches).
In northeastern Australia, you’ll find an endangered species called the black-striped wallaby. While smaller and more colorful, it bears similarities to the red-necked wallaby. Female black-striped wallabies can grow up to 0.65 meters (25 inches) in height, while males can reach an impressive 1 meter (40 inches). Their tails range in length from 20 inches to 0.8 meters.
Tammar wallabies inhabit small areas of Western Australia and South Australia. Males measure between 59 and 68 centimeters (23 to 27 inches), while females range from 52 to 63 centimeters (20 to 25 inches) in length. When standing, their height reaches approximately 0.45 meters (18 inches).
The western brush wallaby, found along Western Australia’s southwest coastline, stands at a height of around 0.8 meters (32 inches). Its tail measures between 0.6 and 0.9 meters (23 to 35 inches) in length.
Lastly, we have the parma wallaby, which can be found in the woodlands of northern New South Wales. While shorter than a whiptail wallaby, the parma wallaby still reaches a height between 0.65 and 0.75 meters (23 and 30 inches). Its tail is approximately the same length as its body, which measures around 0.5 meters (20 inches).
Remember, the variation in size and height between kangaroo species is a fascinating aspect of these unique creatures. As you delve into the world of kangaroos, wallabies, and wallaroos, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of diversity.
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