Antelope kangaroo

Osphranter antilopinus

 The antelope kangaroo (Macropus antilopinus) is a species of marsupial from the kangaroo family (Macropodidae). It is one of the larger and at the same time little known kangaroo species.

Antelope kangaroos are large, relatively stocky animals. They reach a head body length of 80 to 106 centimeters and a tail length of 69 to 81 centimeters. Their weight is 17 to 37 kilograms, with the males becoming significantly larger and heavier than the females. As with most kangaroos, the hind legs are significantly longer than the front legs and the tail is long and muscular. The head is relatively small and elongated, the ears are large. The fur of the males is reddish-brown, the females are more gray in color. In addition, the males are distinguished by a swelling on the nose, which is presumably used for cooling and is not present in the females.

Antelope kangaroos are found in much of northern Australia. They live in northern Western Australia, the northern Northern Territory and the Cape York Peninsula. Their preferred habitat are open forest areas, some with grass.

These animals occupy the ecological niche in northern Australia, which is occupied by the red and gray giant kangaroos in inner and southern Australia. They are crepuscular or nocturnal animals that sleep in the shade of the trees during the day. In contrast to the other mountain kangaroos, they live in groups that can contain up to 30 animals. The groups have a loose structure and, like all kangaroos, they have no permanent connections.

They are pure herbivores that feed primarily on grasses and herbs. A multi-chambered stomach helps them to break down food that is difficult to digest.

After around one month of gestation, the female usually gives birth to a single young. This spends its first few months in its mother's pouch. The delayed birth can also be observed in them.

Antelope kangaroos occur in low population densities, but have a large distribution area and are therefore not endangered according to the IUCN. In some regions, however, populations are declining due to the conversion of their habitat into grazing areas.

The species is no longer kept in Europe, former owners are Frankfurt, Halle, Cologne and London.