Kangaroos are not native to the United States. While they do not naturally inhabit North America’s wild landscapes, they can be found within its borders in specific, regulated environments. Their presence is primarily due to human intervention, through accredited facilities or private ownership.
Kangaroos’ Native Home
Kangaroos are indigenous to Australia and Papua New Guinea, thriving across a variety of ecological zones. Australia is home to several distinct species, including the Red Kangaroo, Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Western Grey Kangaroo, and Antilopine Kangaroo. These large marsupials are adapted to diverse environments, ranging from deserts and grasslands to scrublands and forests.
Kangaroos Present in the US
Kangaroos can be observed in the United States, predominantly in accredited zoos and wildlife sanctuaries. Facilities like the Detroit Zoo and Indianapolis Zoo house red kangaroos, offering opportunities for public viewing and education. These controlled environments prioritize the animals’ welfare, providing specialized care and habitats that mimic their natural surroundings. Some wildlife parks, such as the North Georgia Wildlife Park, even offer interactive experiences where visitors can get close to kangaroos.
Beyond accredited institutions, kangaroos are also present in the U.S. through private ownership, where legal. These privately owned animals are occasionally involved in escapes, leading to rare sightings in unexpected locations. Recent incidents include a kangaroo named Sheila shutting down an interstate in Alabama and “Irwin” the kangaroo leading police on a chase in Colorado. Such occurrences highlight the challenges associated with managing exotic animals outside their native environments.
Private Ownership Regulations
The legality of privately owning kangaroos in the United States varies considerably by state. Some states, like Wisconsin, West Virginia, and South Carolina, permit kangaroo ownership without requiring special permits. Other states, including Texas, Washington, Idaho, Maine, and New Hampshire, allow ownership but mandate specific permits. Florida classifies kangaroos as Class III wildlife, which permits ownership with a license, requiring proof of suitable housing and knowledge of the species.
Conversely, many states, such as California, New York, and Ohio, have outright bans on private kangaroo ownership. Regulations often cite concerns for animal welfare, public safety, and potential ecological risks. Owning exotic animals like kangaroos necessitates considerable responsibility, including providing appropriate enclosures, specialized veterinary care, and ensuring public safety.
Other US Marsupials
While kangaroos are not native to the United States, North America is home to its own indigenous marsupial: the Virginia opossum. The Virginia opossum is the only marsupial species found north of Mexico, with a range extending across much of the U.S., east of the Rocky Mountains, and on the West Coast. These adaptable creatures inhabit diverse environments, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. Unlike kangaroos, which are large, hopping herbivores, opossums are typically cat-sized, omnivorous, and possess a prehensile tail used for grasping.