Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the kangaroo in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the kangaroo in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the kangaroo in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the kangaroo’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Kangaroo
Scientific name: Macropus

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: MACROPODIDAE
Group: Mammals
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 20 m
Rut period: November to February
Gestation: 30 à 40 jours
Births: November to February
Habitat:
Open areas, savannas, temperate forests, and grasslands of Australia, often in arid and semi-arid environments
Activity period :
Active at dawn and dusk, ideal moments for observation.
Identification and description:
The Kangaroo is an iconic marsupial, famous for its large size, powerful hind legs, and long tail. It typically measures between 1 and 1.8 meters in length, with a tail length of 80 to 100 cm, and can weigh between 18 and 90 kg, depending on the species. Its coat varies depending on the species but is generally gray or red, with dense fur that protects it from the extreme temperatures of Australia. The Kangaroo is an excellent jumper, capable of covering large distances with its powerful hind legs and its tail, which serves as a counterbalance when it moves. Herbivorous, it primarily feeds on grass, leaves, and young shoots. Kangaroos primarily inhabit open plains, forests, and savannahs in Australia. They are social animals, often living in groups called "mobs," although they can also be solitary. While the species is not endangered, it is sometimes threatened by habitat loss, bushfires, and competition with livestock.
Recommended lens:
200 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
To photograph kangaroos, a telephoto lens is ideal for capturing their jumps and agility. The best lighting conditions are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is soft. Be discreet and respect their space, as while they are tolerant, getting too close can scare them.
The WildlifePhotographer App is coming soon!
Be the first to explore the best nature spots, track rutting seasons, log your observations, and observe more wildlife.
Already 1 406 wildlife lovers subscribed worldwide