Can Kangaroos Walk Or Hop Backwards
By: NDTVNewsDesk
Image: Pexels
Kangaroos cannot walk or hop backward because their powerful hind legs and large, muscular tail are built for efficient forward motion.
Image: Pexels
This makes reverse movement physically impossible for true walking or hopping.
Image: Pexels
However, they can shuffle or hop back short distances to dodge threats.
Image: Pexels
Their entire musculoskeletal system is specialized for covering vast distances in one direction.
Image: Pexels
This makes them "always moving forward" creatures, a trait symbolised by their presence on the Australian Coat of Arms.
Image: Pexels
Unlike most mammals whose legs move independently, a kangaroo's hind legs move together in a synchronised hop.
Image: Pexels
This paired movement makes the alternating action required for walking or hopping backward nearly impossible.
Image: Pexels
The sheer size and shape of their feet also act as a physical impediment to moving in reverse.
Image: Pexels
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