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Australia: Animals - Red Kangaroos, Koalas and Wombats
For tourists, australian animals are limited to kangaroos, koalas and wombats. However, there are many other species which are native to this great continent.
A lot of native australian animals are endangered. Partly, this is due to the direct human expansion, partly through indirect introduction of foreign species.
One of the biggest headaches for australian wildlife is a rabbit. It was brought by European settlers and now it causes an ecological havoc.
European rats are another problem for the local australian wildlife.
However, some australian native animals were also exported to the world.
A deadly red back spider is one of those examples. In other words we get rabbits and we pay for them with venomous spiders (cool, hey?).
So what is on the "menu"? It is difficult to describe all native animals of Australia but lets take a look at the following:
- Red Kangaroo
- Koala
- Galah
- Emu
- Wombat
Australian Native Red Kangaroo
The red kangaroo is the largest among Australian kangaroos. This australian animals live on grasses and can have a significant impact on the vegetation. These species adapted very well to the climatic conditions of Australia. They have ability to prolong the birth of their offspring. This way female kangaroos ensure that babies are born in favourable conditions. The ability to shelter and feed the youngsters in the pouch further ensure survivability. These australian animals can be dangerous and should never be approached without a professional supervision.
Australian Native Koala
Koalas is another best known australian native animal. There are two types: the Northern and the Southern Koala. All Koalas feed on eucalyptus leaves. Usually, there is enough moisture in those leaves for the animal not to drink water for a prolonged time. This is why the name Koala comes from the Aboriginal word: "no drink".
Australian Native Galah
This is the widely populated bird in Australia. It is related to the cockatoo family with a beautiful combination of pink and gray feathers. Galah can be found anywhere including parks of the densely populated cities. This australian animals are not shy but can be tricky to approach. Galahs mate for life and care for their young. Each female can successfully lay 3 to 4 eggs.
Australian Native Emu
Emu is the third largest bird in the world. It cannot fly but it stands to 2 meters tall. The bird is quite heavy (36kg) but extremely fast. The female can lay up to 20 eggs. This australian animals feed on grass, leaves and insects. They prefer lush green and open areas to live on. Males care for their young. Often it takes six months after hatching for a young emu to be independent.
Australian Native Wombat
The northern wombat is a critically endangered specie. These are relatively small but heavy australian animals. Wombats measure about 1 meter of length and 30kg of weight. They have a distinct wide head with pointed ears. This australian animals feed on grasses and requires very little water to survive. Females can have only one young per litter. Most young wombats stay in mother's pouch for up to nine month. The maturity is achieved after 2-3 years. Generally, wombats can live for more than 20 years, a significant age for typical australian animals.