Why do smaller kangaroo species often browse rather than graze?

Smaller kangaroo species, such as wallabies, tend to be more selective in their feeding habits than their larger counterparts. While large kangaroo species are primarily grazers that feed on grass in open areas, smaller species often focus on browsing—consuming leaves, shrubs, and tree bark.12

This dietary preference is largely a matter of selectivity and adaptation. Smaller species are more selective feeders, allowing them to choose higher-quality or more accessible vegetation when grass is less available or less suitable. This ability to switch between grazing and browsing is a crucial survival strategy for kangaroos living in the diverse and sometimes harsh Australian environment.1