What does kangaroo mean

A.� Asked geoquest recently. Click here to see a number of possible explanations.

�

Q.� How tall are kangaroos

A.� Well there isn't just one type of kangaroo, there are over 50 different species ranging in size. The largest is the Red Kangaroo, which can grow up to almost 2 metres and weighs in at 85 kg. It's the largest marsupial in the world.

�

However fossil evidence of kangaroos, which first appeared around 15 million years ago, during the Miocene epoch, points to evidence of a now extinct giant kangaroo. This giant stood up to 3 metres and probably weighed around 200kg.

�

Q.� And the smallest kangaroo

A.� The smaller species are usually called rat kangaroos, potoroos, tree kangaroos, pademelons and wallabies. The smallest is the musky rat kangaroo, which is about the size of a rabbit.

�

Q.� How fast can the kangaroo move

A.� Kangaroos, which are macropods, meaning 'bigfoot', uses its powerful hind legs and tail to propel itself forward, reaching speeds of up to 60kmh (40mph), with leaps as long as 8 m.

�

Kangaroos can also clear 3 metre high fences.

�

The kangaroo's heavy, muscular tail is also important for getting around. It serves as a counterbalance and a rudder during hopping, and provides support when the animal sits.

�

Q.� What do kangaroos eat

A.� Kangaroos are herbivores and stick to a mainly grass diet. They usually feed during the late afternoon and night, having spent to hotter part of the day in the shade. This also means they can survive for months without drinking water

�

Q.� Are kangaroos exclusive to Australia

A.� No, they can also be found in Tasmania, New Guinea, the islands of Aru and Kei and parts of the Bismarck Archipelago.

�

Q.� How long do baby kangaroos stay in their mother's pouch for

A.� Kangaroos are marsupials; so they don't have placentas like other mammals that allow the foetus to develop fully in the womb. Kangaroo foetus are born before they're fully formed and have to crawl to their mother's pouch, feed on the nipple, before they develop completely.

�

They normally don't venture out of the pouch until 3 months, returning regularly, which they may carry on doing for up to a year.

�

Interested in an unusual animal Ask a question here.

�

by Lisa Cardy