How Fast Are Kangaroos? Discover Top Speeds and Agility

Kangaroos can only be found in Australia and New Guinea. They are speedy animals with powerful leg muscles that send them hopping across long distances. Just how fast are kangaroos? Read on to discover kangaroos’ top speeds and superior agility.

How Fast Are Kangaroos?

The red kangaroo is the fastest (and largest) species of kangaroo. It can comfortably cruise along at 20 miles (32 kilometers) per hour. Although this marsupial is comfortable hopping at that speed, it has been known to reach nearly 35 miles (56 kilometers) per hour for short distances. Interestingly, the faster a kangaroo cruises at its comfortable speed of up to 20 miles per hour, the less energy it consumes.

Why Do Kangaroos Hop?

Kangaroos have evolved to have short forelimbs and long tails. They use their tail to carry much of their weight as if it were a third leg. Their tail also helps them balance as they jump, and they put weight on it for rest. We know kangaroos can jump efficiently, but why have they evolved to do so? Kangaroos living in the Australian outback may need to go for miles before they come across food and water in the harsh climate. Their fast hopping ability gives them an advantage in finding resources across the vast savannahs and deserts. Hopping is an energy-efficient method of travel for kangaroos, which means they can reach long distances in search of food and water.

How Agile Are Kangaroos?

Kangaroos are agile creatures. With their big, strong hips and slimmer upper bodies, they can turn and twist with ease. They can even go from crouching positions to upright without moving their hind legs. Another agile feat, kangaroos can turn 180 degrees in a single hop. They do this by pivoting on one foot.

How Far Can a Kangaroo Jump?

Red kangaroos can hop over 25 to 30 feet when they are traveling at top speeds. The record for the longest jump is 42 feet in one leap.

Can a Person Outrun a Kangaroo?

No, kangaroos are much faster than people. The fastest a person has ever run was Jamaican runner and Olympic champion, Usain Bolt. Bolt achieved a world record of 27.8 (44.7) miles per hour during a sprint. Kangaroos are still cruising comfortably at 20 miles (32 kilometers) per hour. And they can sprint at nearly 35 miles (56 kilometers) per hour.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Artem Avetisyan/Shutterstock.com