What makes the Kangaroo Island kangaroos different?

Kangaroo Island kangaroos have thicker, browner fur than most western grey kangaroos. This sub-species has evolved in isolation – they’re also shorter than mainland roos.

It is not difficult to spot kangaroos on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Given the name of the island, this should come as no real surprise. However, what is surprising is the way they look.

12 Kangaroo Island experiences worth booking in advance

1. Full day island highlights tour. 2. Harriet River kayaking. 3. Little Sahara buggy tour. 4. Sandboarding on the dunes. 5. Little Sahara fat-biking. 6. Vivonne Bay koala-spotting nature walk. 7. Ocean Safari wildlife cruise. 8. Quad biking adventures. 9. Food and wine hop-on, hop-off tour. 10. Half day tasting tour. 11. KI Spirits cocktail masterclass. 12. Small group Dudley Peninsula tour.

Once you’ve spotted a few Kangaroo Island kangaroos, it quickly becomes clear that they are not the same as the roos on the mainland.

Is the Kangaroo Island kangaroo a different species?

The Kangaroo Island kangaroos are notably shorter than their mainland compatriots. In fact, many visitors question whether they are wallabies upon first seeing them. They’re not wallabies, however – they’re a subspecies of the western grey kangaroo.

The other factor that makes Kangaroo Island kangaroos different is their fur colour. It is not the usual grey – it’s more like a chocolate brown. The fur is thicker, too. The Kangaroo Island kangaroos are much fluffier, and some would argue cuter, than the standard western greys.

Where to see kangaroos on Kangaroo Island

Good places to see kangaroos on Kangaroo Island include the Cape Willoughby Conservation Park at the island’s eastern tip, and Stokes Bay in the north. But they’re not exactly in hiding on the rest of the island. They’re likely to be the first Kangaroo Island wildlife many visitors encounter.

The Kangaroo Island kangaroos have evolved in isolation, hence the different characteristics.

Places to stay on Kangaroo Island include the plush Sea Dragon Lodge, the conveniently-located Aurora Ozone Hotel in Kingscote and the Kangaroo Island Seafront Caravan Park, which offers glamping tents. You can get to the island by flying from Adelaide or taking the ferry from Cape Jervis.

Best Kangaroo Island accommodation choices

For deluxe accommodation with island tours packaged in: Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island.
For self-caterers and family groups: Emu Bay Holiday Homes.
For posh camping near the ferry terminal: KI Seafront Holiday Park.
For plenty of space in Kingscote: Villas on the Bay.
For hotel service: Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge.