Scientists Reveal Surprising Discovery About Ancient Kangaroos
A group of scientists from different countries have shared a discovery about the kangaroos that lived in Australia approximately 40,000 years ago. According to the research findings, scientists have reconstructed the appearance and way of life of these unusual animals.
Scientists found the remains of a male and female kangaroo in the southwest of Australia. After extensive research of the fossils, they concluded that kangaroos spent half of their lives in trees, which is surprising considering the huge size of these animals.
«We have established that the remains of these animals, which became extinct about 40,000 years ago, may belong to the species Wallabia kitcheneri, a genus of Australian marsupial kangaroos. This species was first described in 1989 based on a skull and teeth found. During new excavations, we were able to find two almost complete skeletons,» the scientists said.
They also noted that in ancient times, kangaroos had very long fingers on their hind and front paws, as well as large curved claws. Thanks to these adaptations, the animals were able to climb to the top of tree trunks. Researchers also found that ancient kangaroos had powerful muscles on their front paws, which allowed them to support a large weight. Experts emphasize that ancient marsupials were significantly larger than modern ones.
