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Which natural predators hunt kangaroos?

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Red kangaroos on the move — kangaroo A group of red kangaroos (*Macropus rufus*) using their powerful hind legs and feet to hop.

The primary natural predator of kangaroos is the dingo, a wild canine native to Australia that has historically preyed upon them. Additionally, the wedge-tailed eagle is recognized as one of the few natural predators of macropodids.123

While these are their natural predators, kangaroos have developed defensive behaviors to protect themselves. They are known to fight by biting, kicking, and boxing, using their forepaws to grip an enemy while rocking back on their tails to deliver powerful strikes with their clawed hind feet. When threatened by dogs, they may also attempt to retreat to water to drown their pursuers.1

It is important to note that introduced species have also significantly impacted kangaroo populations. Smaller species, in particular, have faced extinction or endangerment due to predation by introduced foxes. Furthermore, feral dogs continue to pose a threat to kangaroos on the Australian mainland.31