Fauna
Mammal

Western Grey Kangaroo

Macropus fuliginosus

Also known as Black-faced Kangaroo, Mallee Kangaroo, Sooty Kangaroo, Kangaroo Island Grey Kangaroo

Western grey kangaroos browse and graze in large fluid social groups across the southern woodlands, heathlands, and shrublands of Australia. Recognized by their dusky grey-brown fur, dark faces, and muscular bodies, adult males produce a distinct, pungent odor that gives them the nickname stinker. Mothers rear a single joey inside a forward-facing pouch, which continues to jump back inside for refuge well after learning to hop on its own.

MarsupialHerbivoreCrepuscular
Western Grey Kangaroo reference1 / 7
(c) Thomas Mesaglio, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyNative Grasses, Herbs and Forbs, Shrub Foliage
Predators
  • Dingo
  • Wedge-tailed Eagle
  • Red Fox
ThreatsVehicle strikes, habitat fragmentation, and local culling
HabitatsWoodlands, heathlands, mallee scrub, and coastal shrublands
Life span10–15 years in the wild
Classification
  1. OrderDiprotodontia
  2. FamilyMacropodidae
  3. GenusMacropus
  4. SpeciesMacropus fuliginosus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Large males can defend themselves with powerful hind leg kicks; give them ample space.
Why it is dangerous
Powerful hind leg muscles and long, sharp claws can deliver crushing kicks when cornered or defending young.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for dark brownish-grey fur, a dark muzzle, large muscular legs, and a sturdy tail.
What to do
Back away slowly if an individual stands upright, growls, or thumps its tail on the ground.
Responsible observation
  • Keep Distance: Maintain at least 15 to 20 meters distance to avoid startling feeding mobs.
  • Restrain Dogs: Keep domestic dogs on a tight leash, as kangaroos perceive them as dangerous predators.
  • Drive Cautiously: Slow down at dawn and dusk through rural roads where crossings are frequent.
Related species
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