Have you ever seen videos of kangaroos boxing like real sportsmen?
Of course, they don't actually know anything about this sport, but it often seems that they would've been pretty successful in it.
Here's why they do it.
What is it?
The "boxing" stance of kangaroos involves standing upright on their powerful hind legs and using their front legs to grapple and strike each other.
This behavior can appear quite similar to boxing, with the kangaroos delivering strong blows, usually with their front paws.
Here's why kangaroos engage in this behavior.
Competition for Mates
Male kangaroos "box" to establish dominance and secure the opportunity to mate with females.
These contests help determine which male is the strongest and most suitable to pass on their genes to the next generation.
Territorial Disputes
Kangaroos can also engage in this behavior when there are territorial disputes.
The dominant male in an area often has control over the best resources like food and water, so these fights can help establish who gets access to these valuable resources.
Hierarchy
Within kangaroo groups, there is a hierarchy. The "boxing" matches help reaffirm the social order, ensuring that the dominant male maintains his status.
Practice for Young Kangaroos
Sometimes, younger male kangaroos will engage in these behaviors as a way to practice and prepare for more serious battles in the future.
Conclusion
While it may appear as if kangaroos enjoy "boxing" like a sport, it's important to understand that this behavior is rooted in their instinctual drive to survive and reproduce.
It's a means of determining pecking order and access to resources, and it's not driven by enjoyment or entertainment as humans experience in sports like boxing.
