Why Kangaroos Are Spray-Painted: Roadkill & Wildlife Rescue
- Matthew Urmenyhazi
- Jul 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 11
What Visitors Should Know About Wildlife on Aussie Roads
If you’re visiting Australia for the first time, you might be curious about the stories surrounding roadkill and how locals handle wildlife rescue - especially when it comes to kangaroos and their unique pouches. It might sound unusual, but knowing what to do if you see a dead animal on the road is important. This article will help you understand how Aussies care for their wildlife, what to expect, and why checking a kangaroo’s pouch can sometimes save a joey’s life.
Australia’s roads weave right through some of the most stunning bushland on Earth. But they also cut through the home ranges of our iconic wildlife — kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, possums, and more.
Unlike deer or foxes in other countries, many of our animals are nocturnal and not great at dodging cars.
Which means, sadly, roadkill happens. Especially around dawn and dusk. And unlike most animals elsewhere, many of our mammals are marsupials — they carry their babies in pouches. So if you see a dead kangaroo or wombat on the roadside, there’s a chance a tiny joey might still be alive inside.
So, Is It True You Have to Check the Pouch if You Hit a Kangaroo?
It’s one of those very Australian questions — and the answer is yes. Checking the pouch can save a baby joey’s life.
But don’t worry - you’re very unlikely to see any roadkill on our Sydney tours. Roadkill is mostly found in rural and outback areas, not near the city or on our routes. Still, it’s a fascinating insight into how Australians quietly care for the unique wildlife we share our land with.
Roadside Wildlife Rescue: Pouch Checks That Save Lives
If an adult kangaroo, wallaby or wombat is found dead on the roadside, there’s a chance its joey could still be alive inside.
Because of this, wildlife carers, farmers, and local drivers in the bush are trained to gently check the pouch. If a joey is found alive, it is carefully removed, kept warm, and handed over to a licensed wildlife carer. Over time, this practice has saved thousands of baby animals.
What Does the Spray-Painted ‘X’ Mean?
If you’re ever in the countryside and see a kangaroo by the road with a large spray-painted cross (✖) on its side, it’s not vandalism—it’s a signal.
This mark shows that:
The animal has been checked
There’s no joey inside
No further action is needed
It’s a way to let other motorists and wildlife rescuers know someone has already done the right thing.
Why Share This With You?
While you probably won’t be rescuing a joey on your trip, understanding this story connects you to the heart of Australia - not just its amazing landscapes, but the values and care behind the scenes.
So next time you see a photo or hear about a kangaroo with a painted cross, you can say, “That means someone’s already checked the pouch.”
Aussie Wildlife FAQs for Visitors
Q: What should I do if I hit a kangaroo?
A: If it happens (hopefully not!), pull over safely. If the animal is dead, check the pouch only if safe. Then call a wildlife rescue service. Don’t attempt to move large injured animals yourself.
Q: Why do people spray paint kangaroo roadkill?
A: To show the animal has been checked so others don’t have to stop unnecessarily or put themselves at risk.
Q: Can I keep a joey I find?
A: No. It’s illegal unless you’re a registered wildlife carer. Always contact a professional.
Q: Are kangaroos dangerous?
A: Any injured animal can be unpredictable. It’s safest to avoid approaching and call wildlife rescue instead.
One Last Tip If You’re Exploring Rural Australia
If your travels take you into the country after your Sydney tour, and you see roadkill:
Stop only if it’s safe to do so
Approach carefully; some animals may still be alive and injured
If it’s a kangaroo, wallaby, wombat, or possum, check the pouch
If you find a joey, keep it warm in a towel or soft bag
Don’t feed the joey
Call WIRES, Australia's largest wildlife rescue organisation, on 1300 094 737 (NSW)
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