Kangaroos...

Kangaroos will always make me pullover whenever I notice them. This family was enjoying a mid morning siesta. There was an older joey who was still suckling milk. Joey's normally leave the pouch at around 11 months, and can continue drinking milk up to 18 months of age. The teats are inside the pouch and I watched as this hungry joey latched on. I did wonder if there was another joey in the pouch. A doe can care for three joey's at a time. One in the uterus, one in the pouch and one like this one whose left the pouch yet is still dependent on mama. 

Kangaroo mothers are meticulous in pouch cleanliness as it's vital for healthy joeys. They clean the pouch by licking and using their snouts to clean waste out. 

Kangaroos are social and although they live in small to large groups apparently the hierarchy shifts, especially when defending territory and during mating seasons. 

Kangaroos will groom each other which strengthens bonds. 

And mobs of kangaroo's will physically grieve the loss of a family member. 

Most people underestimate the intelligence and bonds kangaroos have, yet if you observe them long enough it's easy to see there is emotional depth and intelligence. 

I encounter this group on a regular basis, mostly I like to sit and watch, being in the moment instead of taking my camera...