How high can a kangaroo jump?
Large kangaroos, such as the red kangaroo, can leap around three metres high and cover up to about eight or nine metres in a single bound. They can also reach speeds of more than 50 kilometres per hour.
Kangaroos have powerful hind legs and long feet, which work like springs. Their large tendons store energy as they land and release it as they jump.
Hopping is an energy-efficient way to travel. At higher speeds, kangaroos use little more energy than at lower speeds, allowing them to cover long distances.
The role of the tail
A kangaroo's long, muscular tail helps it balance while hopping. When moving slowly, kangaroos use their tail as a fifth leg, supporting their weight as they swing their back legs forward.
Kangaroos cannot walk backward easily, which is often mentioned as a reason they appear on the Australian coat of arms.
Kangaroos can clear fences when they need to, which can be a problem for farmers. They are most active at dawn and dusk and are a common hazard for drivers in rural areas.