When life gives you carrots, make carrot ice for kangaroos

By Taylah Baker

Dec 19, 2024

**The kangaroos really get a kick out of their new favourite summer snack.** Photo by Jo Howell

At Kyabram Fauna Park, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree – but the carrots sure do.

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As temperatures sizzle past 30°C, keepers have kept their mob of kangaroos cool by preparing the not-so-forbidden fruit into icy poles and hanging the refreshments in the trees, sparking the curiosity of the hungry marsupials.

Using the bushland like a springboard, the kangaroos and a few joeys bounce over to the dangling carrots, using their surprisingly dexterous set of paws to dig into their new favourite summer snack.

**Kyabram Fauna Park keepers use an innovative method to help their animals keep cool and carry on.** Photo by Jo Howell

Kyabram Fauna Park life sciences coordinator Ellice Duncan said the animals enjoy the frozen treats, particularly the kangaroos from Kangaroo Island.

These kangaroos have thicker fur than those found in warmer regions of Australia, which helps them cope with the cold winters in South Australia.

“The moment they see the keepers coming with their favourite treat of carrot ice, they hop right over and use their powerful legs to reach up and tackle the ice,” she said.

**Joeys jump at the chance to indulge in the carrot ice.** Photo by Jo Howell

“After the kangaroos have nibbled at the ice and found all the food, occasionally they will sit on top of the ice and just chill out.

“With no predators around, the kangaroos are extremely relaxed and placid.

“You can often see them relaxing in a big kangaroo pile in the shade.”

While some kangaroos prefer to chill, others in the wild jump at the chance to go on an adventure.

Kyabram Fauna Park encourages Victorians to help wildlife beat the heat from their own backyards and balconies.

During the warmer months, residents are encouraged to play host to their tawny visitors by providing safe access to water.

To do this, create a shallow dish – preferably made of plastic or ceramic – in a shady area near shrubs or trees, ensuring it is away from pets and roads.

Placing a rock or stick can provide an escape route for animals that may fall in.

Additionally, changing the water daily helps keep it clean, making a significant difference on hot days.