Their bodies may look similar in size to humans, but kangaroos are far more powerful than they appear. These muscular animals can be six to seven times stronger than a person, and their massive legs can deliver kicks with more than 320 kg (700 lb) of force. A single strike can break bones, injure organs, and leave serious damage. Their sharp claws can also tear through skin in an instant.
Kangaroo Island lies off the southern coast of Australia. Although it is only about one-third the size of Sydney, it is home to more than 65,000 kangaroos. But these powerful animals are not the only danger waiting there. Deadly snakes, dangerous roads, and extreme weather can turn this beautiful island into a place where survival depends on knowing what to do.
Fortunately, there are ways to stay safe. Follow these steps carefully, and whatever you do, leave your dog at home.
STEP 1: Get Low
Imagine being surrounded by a group of aggressive kangaroos. The biggest mistake you could make is standing tall and trying to appear threatening.
Kangaroos are built for powerful attacks. If they feel cornered, they can strike with their legs, grab with their arms, and use their claws to defend themselves.
The safest option is to lower yourself and slowly move away without turning your back. If the animal continues attacking, protect your head and important body parts by curling into a defensive position. Staying still can help convince the kangaroo that you are no longer a threat.
STEP 2: Keep Dogs Away
Kangaroos see dogs as a serious danger because they resemble some of their natural predators, including dingoes. A dog getting too close can trigger an aggressive reaction, even if the kangaroo was not originally looking for a fight.
In 2004, Australian authorities warned the public after a kangaroo attacked a woman and killed her dog. If a kangaroo runs away from your pet, do not let the dog chase it. The animal may turn around and fight back.
STEP 3: Avoid the Water
One surprising defense strategy used by kangaroos is escaping into water. When predators chase them into rivers or lakes, kangaroos can use their powerful arms and legs to push attackers underwater.
For this reason, never allow your dog to chase a kangaroo near the water, and avoid getting too close yourself.
STEP 4: Drive Carefully
Kangaroo Island has fewer than 5,000 residents, but the island still experiences dangerous accidents. Each year, people are injured, and some lose their lives because of crashes on the island’s roads.
Unpaved roads, difficult terrain, changing weather, and wildlife crossing the roads all increase the risk. Kangaroo collisions can be deadly for both drivers and animals. Between 2000 and 2019, Australia recorded six human deaths caused by vehicle accidents involving kangaroos. During just one year, thousands of kangaroos were involved in road collisions.
The best way to avoid disaster is simple: slow down and stay alert.
STEP 5: Watch Where You Step
Kangaroo Island is famous for its wildlife, but some of its creatures are much more dangerous than kangaroos. Among them is the tiger snake, one of the most venomous snakes in the world.
These snakes can be difficult to identify because not all of them have the famous dark stripes. However, they usually give a warning before striking. When threatened, they flatten their head and neck, raise their body, and prepare to defend themselves.
If you see this behavior, do not make sudden movements. Slowly move away and give the snake space.
A tiger snake bite can be extremely dangerous. Its venom contains toxins that can affect the nervous system, damage muscles, and stop blood from clotting properly.
If bitten, stay calm and avoid moving. Keep the injured area below heart level, apply a firm pressure bandage, and get medical help immediately. Antivenom treatment can save your life.
STEP 6: Watch Out for Wildfires
Kangaroo Island has also faced another powerful threat: fire. During the devastating 2019 and 2020 bushfire season, known as Black Summer, flames destroyed more than 40% of the island’s vegetation and killed large numbers of animals. Two people also lost their lives.
Since then, the community has worked hard to rebuild the island. Tourism has continued to grow, and the area is recovering.
However, visitors should remember that wildfires remain a serious risk. The most dangerous period is usually from December through May, so always check conditions before exploring the island.
