Why Kangaroos Hop: What Scientist Say
By: EjazUlHaqBhat
Image: Pexels
Scientists believe kangaroos evolved to hop, likely due to a combination of factors
Image: Pexels
In animals heavier than 5 kg, hopping is an incredibly efficient form of locomotion
Image: Pexels
The vast majority of animals that hop are really small. The only hopping animals with body masses over 500 grams are kangaroos
Image: Pexels
Australia used to have a lot more kangaroo species, many of them quite large
Image: Pexels
Hypotheses range from predator escape, to energy preservation, to the opening of vegetation as Australia shifted to a drier climate
Image: Pexels
Hopping is a more energy-efficient way for kangaroos to travel long distances across open, and harsh terrain
Image: Pexels
Fossil evidence suggests that early kangaroos may have used other forms of locomotion, and the ability to hop likely emerged later
Image: Pexels
Kangaroos have powerful hind legs and a strong, muscular tail that act as a "tripod," enabling them to hop and maintain balance
Image: Pexels
ndtv.com