Kangaroos are a symbol of Australia; their images can be seen everywhere, from coins to the country’s coat of arms. However, few people know that these animals did not always jump. Scientists have recently discovered that the kangaroos’ ancient ancestors moved across the ground on all fours, not on their hind legs.
The study was conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Adela in South Australia. They studied the skeletons of ancient kangaroo ancestors who lived more than 20 million years ago. Scientists found that these animals had long front legs and short hind legs, which allowed them to move on the ground on all fours.
Over time, however, kangaroos began hopping on their hind legs to move more efficiently over open terrain. This allowed them to run faster and cross greater distances, as well as to defend themselves from predators.
Today, kangaroos are some of the fastest animals on the planet, capable of jumping long distances and reaching speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour. They can also jump up to a height of three meters and a distance of up to 12 meters.
Kangaroos are unique animals that are a symbol of Australia and attract the attention of scientists from all over the world. Their evolutionary history is interesting and important for understanding the development of the animal world of our planet.
