Western Grey Kangaroo

Images ©:
©The State of Victoria, Department of Environment and Primary Industry/McCann

Macropus fuliginosus


Body fur greyish-brown to reddish brown. Dark brown face, often with a line of white outlining the lower face. White patches on upper thighs can be seen whenthe animal is facing the other way or when moving. Male body up to 2 m from head to tail. Females smaller. Average height is 1 m and tail 1 m.


Details
Type
Mammal
Group
Biology

The Western Grey Kangaroo is one of the largest kangaroos. Breeding occurs throughout the year, peaking in summer. Gestation takes about 36 days. The joey leaves the pouch at about 11 months. The joey sucks from the mother until about 18 months.

Distinctive Markings

Muzzles have finer hairs than most other kangaroo species.

Taxonomy
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Diprotodontia
Family
Macropodidae
Genus
Macropus
Species
fuliginosus

Western Grey Kangaroo males are known as 'stinkers' due to their strong, curry-like smell.


Interesting Facts
Diet

Herbivore. Eats grasses and herbs.

Habitat

Lives in open grasslands, woodland, open forests, coastal heathland and scrubland.

Native Status
Native to Australia