Abstract

The possibility of farming kangaroos for profit has generated interest for more than a decade. This article discusses aspects of kangaroo biology and husbandry, markets for kangaroo products, and some legal and administrative matters that could affect a kangaroo farming enterprise. Production under intensive conditions is limited by a low reproduction rate and a slow growth rate. Handling difficulties would also ensure many husbandry problems. Rangeland farming of kangaroos is limited by the mobility of kangaroos, their ability to jump stock fences and behaviour patterns which prevent mustering or herding. Markets for meat and skins are limited and are adequately supplied from the existing rangeland harvest (i.e. kangaroo hunting). Farmed kangaroos could not compete successfully in these circumstances because of high costs associated with establishing and operating a kangaroo farming enterprise. The conclusion is that kangaroo farming is not a feasible proposition at this time.