Kangaroos’ giant ancestor probably able to hop despite 250kg weight, scientists say

Reconstruction of Sthenurine hopping. Illustration: Megan Jones/UCMP

Giant 250kg kangaroos that once roamed Australia would probably have been able to hop despite their enormous size, researchers have said.

While modern kangaroos are known for their ability to travel large distances by jumping with both hind legs at the same time, it has long been debated whether their extinct relatives would have been so springy.