This Video of a Man Punching a Menacing Kangaroo Square in the Face Will Never Get Old

Kangaroos may look like fascinating and slightly quirky characters but this clip is a timely reminder of just how dangerous they can be. These animals are found in Australia (where they are the national animal) and can weigh up to 200 pounds. A kangaroo is clearly identified by their long legs, bipedal stance, arched back, and smaller head. In the below clip, we get to see the dangers that they can pose to domestic animals – in this case, it is a dog. However, attacks on humans have also been reported.

What We Know About Kangaroo Behavior

Despite the fact that a small number of people keep kangaroos as pets, we need to remember that they are wild animals and are therefore unpredictable. Their behavior is mainly driven by instinct and that can bring them into conflict with both humans and domestic animals.

Kangaroos are not carnivores so attacks are not based on a need for food. They are herbivores and eat mainly grass, fruit, leaves, and flowering plants. As they are adapted for arid habitats, they can go for long periods without water.

However, they are large animals, particularly the red kangaroo which towers above most humans. They also have long arms, big feet, and sharp claws, and are willing to use all of them!

Are Kangaroo Attacks Normal Behavior?

Male kangaroos fight each other for dominance and kangaroos also need to fight off some predators. Both dingoes and wedge-tailed eagles have been seen attacking kangaroos. Therefore, some attacks on humans and dogs may be because the kangaroo perceives them as either a rival or a threat.

The majority of the time they are peace-loving herbivores. If a kangaroo feels threatened, its preferred option would be to run away. However, attacks are most likely if the kangaroo feels cornered.

The injuries caused to this dog look very severe and appear to have been caused by a headlock. This is one of the ways in which two male kangaroos will fight and the lacerations were probably caused by the kangaroo’s claws. We hope the dog got some swift medical attention and made a good recovery.

Watch the Incredible Footage Below

How Big Do Kangaroos Get?

Kangaroos are born very tiny at about 0.5 inches long, weighing less than an ounce. In their first year of life, juvenile kangaroos will reach about 5 feet in height, weighing from 110-150 pounds. They reach adulthood at approximately 1 year of age but can grow for up to 3 or 4 years. Adult male kangaroos weigh an average of 88 to 150 pounds, while their female counterparts weigh 40 to 90 pounds.

Kangaroos are the largest marsupials in the world. One species, the eastern gray kangaroo, is the heaviest marsupial, and the largest marsupial overall is the red kangaroo.