(Includes Kangaroos, Wallabies, Wallaroos, Pademelons)
📖 About Macropods
Macropods are a family of marsupials characterized by their large hind legs and hopping movement. They are found across Australia in a variety of habitats—from dense forests to open grasslands.
👀 When People Encounter Macropods
Common situations include:
- 🚗 Macropods injured in vehicle collisions
- 🧺 Orphaned joeys found near deceased mothers
- 🪢 Animals entangled in fencing or netting
🛠️ What To Do
- ⚠️ Do not approach adult macropods—they are strong and can cause injury when stressed
- 👩🍼 If a deceased female is found, check the pouch for a joey
- Do not remove the joey—instead, contact Wildlife Rescue Australia immediately
- 🐶 Keep pets and people at a safe distance
- 📞 Contact Wildlife Rescue Australia or your local rescue group for assistance
⚠️ Important to Know
Handling macropods—especially injured adults or young joeys—requires specialised training. Untrained intervention may cause further harm or trauma to the animal.
🌿 Why This Matters
Macropods play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Their wellbeing is tied to the health of Australia’s native ecosystems. Supporting their survival contributes to broader biodiversity conservation efforts.
🔍 References
- WIRES Wildlife Rescue. (2024). Kangaroos and Wallabies. Retrieved from:
https://www.wires.org.au/wildlife-information/kangaroos-and-wallabies - North Queensland Wildlife Care Inc. (2024). Macropod Wildlife Rescue. Retrieved from:
https://nqwildlife.org.au/townsville-wildlife-ive-found-a/macropod-wildlife-rescue/
