Wallaroo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wallaroo |
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| A male M. robustus | |
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A wallaroo is an Australian animal that looks like a mix between a big kangaroo and a smaller wallaby. In fact, its name "wallaroo" comes from combining "wallaby" and "kangaroo"! Most wallaroos are smaller than kangaroos. They usually live in open areas with lots of rocks. The word "wallaroo" actually means "rock kangaroo."
All wallaroos stand in a special way: their wrists are raised, their elbows are close to their bodies, and their shoulders are pulled back. They also all have a big, black nose.
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Types of Wallaroos
There are three main types, or species, of wallaroos. Each one has its own unique features and preferred home.
The Common Wallaroo (Macropus robustus)
The eastern wallaroo, also known as the common wallaroo or just wallaroo, is called Macropus robustus by scientists. This wallaroo lives along the Great Dividing Range. This is a huge mountain range that stretches for over 3,000 km along Australia's eastern and south-eastern coast.
There are four different groups, or subspecies, of the common wallaroo:
- The Eastern Wallaroo, which can be found across many parts of Australia.
- The Euro, another widespread type.
- One group that lives only on Barrow Island.
- Another group that lives only in the Kimberley area of Western Australia.
Woodward's Wallaroo (Macropus bernardus)
Woodward's wallaroo is also known as the black wallaroo. Its scientific name is Macropus bernardus. This wallaroo prefers to live in steep, rocky areas within Arnhem Land in Australia.
It is the smallest of the wallaroos, measuring about 60 to 70 cm long (not counting its tail). It is also the most strongly built. Male black wallaroos usually weigh between 19 to 22 kg. Females are a bit lighter, weighing about 13 kg.
The Antilopine Wallaroo (Macropus antilopinus)
The antilopine wallaroo, or Macropus antilopinus, is quite different from the other wallaroos. It actually acts more like the eastern and western grey kangaroos.
Unlike other wallaroos that often live alone, the antilopine wallaroo lives in groups. You can find them on grassy plains and in woodlands.
See also
In Spanish: Ualarú para niños
