Yes, there are a ton of kangaroos in Australia. But why is kangaroo the national animal of Australia? For starters, kangaroos are indigenous to Australia. In fact, this animal is only found in Australia making it very unique to this continent and country.
Next, a bit of history on the kangaroo in Australia will help explain its cultural significance. Going way back, the kangaroo was vitally important to the Aboriginal people of Australia. Kangaroo meat was used for food. Their skin was used for water bags and the kangaroo pelts were used for clothing and rugs. In summary, about all parts of the kangaroo were used and important to the people of Australia.
This is why the kangaroo had not only cultural but also spiritual significance to the people of Australia. Hence, kangaroos were the likely choice to be named the national animal of Australia.
Today, the kangaroo is a symbol for Australia appearing on the Australian Coat of Arms and some of the country’s currency. The kangaroo is even used as the logo for large Australian companies such as Qantas airlines and is also used by the Royal Australian Airforce.
Overall, the kangaroo holds much significance to the people of Australia and continues to hold a prominent role as the national animal of Australia!
