How did European pastoralism contribute to increases in kangaroo populations?

European pastoralism contributed to an increase in kangaroo populations primarily by altering the landscape to favor large grazers. Settlers cleared vast tracts of dense vegetation, which created more open grassland habitats suitable for kangaroos. Additionally, pastoralists provided permanent sources of water in arid and seasonal regions, which helped sustain larger populations of these animals in areas that were previously less hospitable.1

While these changes benefited certain kangaroo species—such as the eastern gray, western gray, and red kangaroos—it is important to note that European colonization also had devastating effects on Australian biodiversity. The introduction of nonnative species, large-scale land clearing, and hunting practices led to the extinction of several other native species and pushed many more toward the brink of extinction. Balancing human economic activities with the ethical imperative to protect native ecosystems and prevent the loss of biodiversity remains a critical challenge.234