The kangaroos around Thompson Beach have been getting rather feisty – it’s something to bear in mind if you intend paying a visit to our town this Easter.

We’re very lucky to be living in the midst of Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary National Park (Winaityinaityi Pangkara). But there’s more to Thompson Beach than just shorebirds in terms of wildlife.

For example, the area is home to a significant population of kangaroos. This poses some risks on the road as kangaroos aren’t the sharpest tools in the shed when it comes to road sense. It’s really important to keep your eyes peeled and speed down*, particularly along the final straight stretch of Ruskin Road into Thompson Beach as the vegetation on either side can hide the roos from view.

Aside from the terrible damage done to a kangaroo (and its joey if carrying young), hitting one at speed can result in significant damage to your vehicle – or worse.

There’s something else you need to watch for in relation to kangaroos, and this also applies when you’re not in your vehicle.

It’s currently mating season and the males are engaging in a bit of biffo with each other, so you should take care when on the walking trails and other bush areas.

Male kangaroos become really involved and focused when fighting each other. There are some really big and very strong male kangaroos around (much larger than those in the above photo) and fights can go on for hours.

If you should happen upon one of these fights and you’re too close, the roos may not see you and there’s a danger you could become collateral damage if you can’t move out of the way quick enough. Or given their heightened state, if you should startle them they may respond by attacking.

It’s not as though you’ll be mugged by marauding male kangaroos as soon as you exit your car – it’s just something to be aware of when walking around the area.

*Just a related reminder – the speed limit within the Thompson Beach township is 40km/h.

Thanks to Emma Micklethwaite for her contribution of imagery and information.