Kangaroos are known for their powerful hopping and distinctive appearance. A common question concerns their interaction with water, particularly their ability to drown perceived threats. Understanding this involves examining their natural behaviors and defensive strategies.
Kangaroos and Water
Kangaroos possess a surprising aptitude for swimming, a skill often underestimated given their primary land movement. They use their strong hind legs to propel themselves through water, employing a dog-paddle motion, while their powerful tail acts as a rudder for steering and balance. This aquatic ability allows them to traverse waterways and cool down in hot climates. They also lick their forearms, where blood vessels aid evaporative cooling to regulate body temperature.
Kangaroos can swim significant distances, with some observed over 300 meters. Though not their preferred environment, they may swim in the ocean to escape predators or reach safety. This swimming is primarily a survival mechanism.
Understanding Defensive Behavior
Kangaroos are generally not aggressive towards humans, but they can become dangerous if they feel threatened, cornered, or provoked. Their primary defensive tools include powerful kicks with their hind legs, which have sharp claws capable of causing severe injury, and grappling with their forepaws. Male kangaroos, particularly large ones, may engage in sparring matches to establish dominance, using boxing and kicking.
When faced with a persistent threat, such as a dingo or a domestic dog, kangaroos may retreat into water. This tactic shifts the advantage to the kangaroo, as they can stand upright in water while a swimming attacker is at a disadvantage. The kangaroo can then use its strong forearms to hold the attacker’s head underwater, attempting to drown it as a desperate, instinctive defensive response. There is no verified evidence of kangaroos intentionally targeting humans for drowning.
Minimizing Risk During Encounters
Dangerous kangaroo-human encounters, especially in water, are uncommon. Kangaroos generally avoid confrontation and will hop away if they sense humans. However, habitat changes and human encroachment can increase interactions.
To minimize risk, maintain a respectful distance from kangaroos and avoid sudden movements. Never feed them, as this can make them associate humans with food, leading to less wariness and potential aggression. If a kangaroo approaches or seems agitated, a short, deep cough can signal submission. Back away slowly, avoiding direct eye contact. If attacked, curl into a ball to protect your head and vital organs until the animal moves away.