Kangaroos, iconic marsupials known for their powerful hopping locomotion, are not native to Texas. Their natural range is thousands of miles away, primarily spanning the diverse landscapes of Australia and Papua New Guinea. While the idea of wild kangaroos roaming the Lone Star State might capture the imagination, any sightings would be of animals kept in non-native contexts.
Where Kangaroos Naturally Live
Kangaroos are indigenous to Australia and parts of New Guinea, inhabiting a variety of environments. The four main species are the Red, Eastern Grey, Western Grey, and Antilopine kangaroos.
Red kangaroos, the largest of the marsupials, thrive in the arid and semi-arid interior of Australia, including grasslands, scrublands, deserts, and open plains. Eastern Grey kangaroos are found in the eastern parts of Australia and Tasmania, preferring open forests, woodlands, and some farmlands. Western Grey kangaroos occupy southern Western Australia, South Australia, and parts of the Murray-Darling basin, often found in woodlands, open forests, and coastal heathlands. The Antilopine kangaroo inhabits the tropical woodlands and grassy plains of northern Australia.
Kangaroos in Texas Non-Native Contexts
Kangaroos can be found in Texas within specific non-native contexts. Texas is one of thirteen states that permits private kangaroo ownership, reflecting its comparatively relaxed exotic animal laws. Local city and county ordinances may also impose their own regulations.
Texas classifies kangaroos as “nontraditional livestock.” Legal ownership requires both an Exotic Wildlife Registration and a Captive Wildlife Permit from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, along with a federal USDA Class III Exotic Animal License. Owners must adhere to specific caging and care standards, including microchipping the animals.
Kangaroos need substantial space, ideally at least an acre of grassy area, and tall, sturdy fencing, typically around eight feet high. They also require specialized diets, and finding veterinary care for exotic marsupials can present a challenge. There have been instances of escaped kangaroos sighted in Texas, originating from private collections or facilities.
Texas Native Marsupials
While kangaroos are not native to Texas, the state does host its own indigenous marsupial: the Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana). This animal is the only marsupial found natively throughout North America.
The Virginia Opossum is a cat-sized mammal characterized by a pointed snout, grayish fur, small rounded ears, and a long, scaly, prehensile tail. This tail can be used for grasping, though adult opossums do not typically hang from it for extended periods. They are nocturnal and solitary animals.
Their diet is omnivorous, consuming a wide range of plant and animal matter. Females have a marsupium, or pouch, where their undeveloped young, known as joeys, continue their development after birth. These marsupials are widely distributed across Texas, inhabiting diverse environments such as woodlands, prairies, marshes, and farmlands, often seeking shelter in hollow trees, logs, or even under buildings.