Researchers Discover New Species of Kangaroo

In a study recently published in the journal "Zootaxa," researchers from the University of Queensland announced the discovery of a new species of kangaroo. The animal, which has been named Sthenurinae ogilbyi, is a relative of the kangaroo and wallaby and is the first new species of kangaroo to be discovered in more than a century.

The new species was discovered in western Queensland, near the town of Jundah. It is distinguished from other kangaroos by its long tail, robust body and short fur. In addition, its skull is unique in that it has two protruding bones above the eyes that give the animal a "Roman nose."

Researchers believe that S. ogilbyi diverged from other kangaroos some time between 18 and 24 million years ago. They say that the discovery underscores the importance of conducting fieldwork in Australia's outback regions, where many undiscovered species are thought to reside.

Kangaroo Attacks Man in Park

For the second time in as many months, a kangaroo has attacked a man in a public park.

In the latest incident, which occurred over the weekend in Sydney, Australia, a kangaroo punched a man in the face, sending him tumbling to the ground.

The victim was treated for minor injuries at the scene and did not require hospitalization.

In May, a 68-year-old man was hospitalized after being attacked by a kangaroo in a park near Melbourne.

Authorities believe that both attacks were unprovoked and are reminding members of the public to be cautious when interacting with kangaroos.

Kangaroos are normally docile creatures, but they can become aggressive when they feel threatened or when their young are endangered.

Tourist Attraction Kangaroos Pose Danger to Visitors

In the Australian outback, kangaroos are a common tourist attraction. While they may appear cute and harmless, these animals can be dangerous to visitors. In recent years, there have been several reports of tourists being attacked by kangaroos.

One reason why kangaroos can be dangerous is their powerful hind legs. They can kick powerfully with these legs, and they can do serious damage if they kick someone in the head or body. Kangaroos are also known to be fast and agile, which makes them difficult to escape from if they decide to attack.

Another reason why kangaroos can be dangerous is because they are unpredictable. They may seem docile one moment, but then suddenly become aggressive for no apparent reason. This can make it difficult for tourists to know how to react when they encounter a kangaroo.

So if you plan on visiting Australia, be aware that kangaroos can pose a danger to tourists. Keep your distance from them and never approach or feed them. And if you do encounter an aggressive kangaroo, don't try to fight back – just back away slowly and safely until you're out of harm's way.

Baby Kangaroos Born at Brookfield Zoo

The Brookfield Zoo is among the first in the United States to have baby kangaroos. The two joeys, one female and one male, were born on December 21 to first-time parents Bucky and Nyah.

The joeys, who weigh about 1.5 pounds each, are currently being kept in an off-exhibit area where they are bonding with their parents and nursing. They will stay with their family for about seven months before moving to the zoo's Kangaroo Walkabout exhibit.

"We are thrilled to welcome these little joeys," said Curator of Mammals Kelly McGrath. "Kangaroos are a popular species here at Brookfield Zoo, and we know our guests will be excited to see them hopping around in the Kangaroo Walkabout exhibit next year."

Native to Australia, kangaroos are the largest marsupials in the world. The father, Bucky, is a gray kangaroo and the mother, Nyah, is a red kangaroo. At full growth, red kangaroos can weigh up to 200 pounds. The babies will remain small for several years, eventually growing to about 60 pounds or so.

Kangaroos are herbivores and typically feed on grasses, leaves, buds, flowers and fruits. They can cover vast distances very quickly by hopping on their powerful hind legs. They also use their tails for balance and as a rudder when swimming.

Police Search for Kangaroo on the Loose

Residents of the small town of Shepherdstown, West Virginia were surprised last week when a kangaroo was spotted hopping around the town. Police were called to help track the animal down, but it was not found.

The kangaroo is believed to have escaped from a nearby farm, where it was being kept as a pet. The owner of the farm said that he had lost track of the kangaroo a few days earlier and assumed it had gone back into the wild.

This is not the first time that a kangaroo has been spotted on the loose in West Virginia. In 2016, a kangaroo was seen hopping around in Huntington, about an hour's drive from Shepherdstown.

Kangaroos are not native to West Virginia and it is unclear how they are surviving in the cold climate. Wildlife experts say that they may be getting help from local residents, who are providing them with food and shelter.

Police are asking residents to be on alert and to report any sightings of the kangaroo to authorities.