Red kangaroos on the move A group of red kangaroos (Macropus rufus) using their powerful hind legs and feet to hop. (more) Why Are Kangaroos Only Found in Australia? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/Why-Are-Kangaroos-Only-Found-in-Australia Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Sep 9, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Kangaroos are found only in Australia because their marsupial ancestors migrated to the continent before it became geographically isolated. Land bridges connected South America to Australia via Antarctica during the Cretaceous Period (145 to 66 million years ago). These allowed early marsupials to colonize and thrive on the Australian landmass before it separated from other continents. Once marsupials reached Australia, the continent’s geographical isolation played a crucial role in their evolution. By about 65 million years ago, Australia was cut off from other continents, creating a unique environment in which marsupials could diversify without competition from placental mammals. This isolation ...(100 of 129 words)

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