The Eastern Grey Kangaroo is the second largest living marsupial, behind the Red Kangaroo. They inhabit much of eastern Australia, including parts of Tasmania.

To survive in hot, arid areas, the kangaroo has a specific way of cooling down. Instead of sweating, they kangaroo will lick its chest and forearms, creating a cooling effect as the moisture evaporates from their skin.

To survive the harsh climate of Australia the Eastern Grey Kangaroo has the ability to “pause” a pregnancy until there is enough food to sustain the mother and joey, this process is called embryonic diapause.

The National Zoo & Aquarium is home to 2 Eastern Grey Kangaroos: Dot and Banjo.