Why do kangaroos hop?
Kangaroos hop because it is an energy-efficient way to travel long distances. Their stretchy tendons store and release energy like springs with each jump.
A kangaroo's large hind legs and long feet are built for hopping. When it lands, the tendons in its legs stretch and store energy, which is released on the next jump. This means that once a kangaroo is moving quickly, hopping faster uses hardly any extra energy. Their breathing is also linked to their hops, which saves effort.
Red kangaroos can reach speeds of more than 55 kilometers per hour in short bursts and cover about 8 meters in a single bound. At slower speeds, kangaroos move on all fours plus their tail, using the tail as a fifth leg to support their weight.
Built for Australia
Hopping suits the wide, open landscapes of Australia, where kangaroos may travel long distances in search of food and water. Their long, muscular tail helps them balance while hopping. Kangaroos cannot easily walk backward or move their back legs independently on land.
Did You Know?
Kangaroos can swim and kick their back legs separately in water, even though they hop with both feet together on land.