Wha
t Do Kangaroos Like to Eat? Kangaroos are herbivorous marsupials that are native to Australia. They are known for their powerful hind legs, which they use to hop around and cover long distances. But what do they like to eat? Let's find out. Grasses and Plants Kangaroos are primarily grazers that feed on a variety of grasses and plants. They prefer to eat fresh green shoots, but they can also consume dry and tough vegetation if necessary. Some of their favorite grasses include barley grass, Kangaroo grass, and wallaby grass. They also like to eat shrubs, bushes, and small trees, such as acacias and eucalyptus. Water and Saltbushes Kangaroos live in arid and semi-arid environments, so they need to consume water and saltbushes to stay hydrated and maintain their electrolyte balance. They are able to obtain most of their water from the plants they eat, especially succulent ones like cactus, but they also drink from rivers, streams, and waterholes when available. They also eat saltbushes, which contain a high amount of salt, to supplement their sodium intake. Fruits and Flowers Although kangaroos are mainly grazers, they can also eat fruits and flowers when they are in season. They particularly enjoy sweet and juicy fruits, such as grapes, berries, and melons. They also like to eat nectar from flowers, which provides them with sugars and energy. Some of the flowers that kangaroos commonly feed on include grevilleas, banksias, and bottlebrushes. Algae and Fungi Kangaroos are known to eat algae and fungi, especially when other sources of food are scarce. Algae are aquatic plants that grow in ponds, lakes, and creeks, and can be found on rocks or underwater. Kangaroos are able to digest the cellulose and proteins in the algae, which provide them with additional nutrients. Fungi are also a source of protein and fiber for kangaroos, and they can be found in the soil or on decaying wood. In conclusion, kangaroos have a diverse diet that includes grasses, plants, water, saltbushes, fruits, flowers, algae, and fungi. They are able to adapt to their environment and consume whatever is available, but they have their preferences and priorities depending on the season and their nutritional needs. If you ever visit Australia and see a kangaroo, you now know what to feed them (although we don't recommend it!).