26 Animals That Walk on Two Legs

It may surprise you to know that several animals walk on two legs!

Many people associate bipedal locomotion with humans, but quite a few species of animals can also move in this way.

From birds to lizards, these animals that walk on two legs reside in various habitats, and each species has its unique way of getting around.

In this blog post, we will explore the various animals that walk on two legs and closely examine how they navigate their environment.

1. Wallabies

Wallabies are members of the kangaroo family, primarily in Australia and nearby islands.

They have strong, muscular hind legs that allow them to hop along on two legs for long distances.

While they are primarily herbivorous, they occasionally eat insects and small animals. 

There are over 30 species of wallabies, ranging in size from the tiny pademelon to the larger red-necked wallaby.

They are social animals and are often in groups called mobs, ranging in size from just a few individuals to over 100. 

One of the most interesting things about wallabies is their ability to use their tail as a third leg, providing balance and stability as they move about.

Additionally, male wallabies often engage in boxing during mating season.

They stand on their hind legs and use their forelegs to box their opponents. 

Overall, wallabies are fascinating animals that demonstrate the unique ability of some animals to walk on two legs.

2. Springhare

Springhare, also known as springhaas or pedetes, is a small mammal in sub-Saharan Africa.

It is a unique animal capable of walking on its hind legs for long periods, making it one of the few mammals that walk bipedally. 

Springhares have long, powerful hind legs to propel themselves into the air when threatened or moving quickly through their habitat.

They can reach up to 6 feet in height when jumping, which is impressive considering their small size.

In addition to their bipedal movement, springhares also have large ears that they use to detect predators and a bushy tail that helps them maintain balance while running and jumping. 

Despite being small and elusive, springhares play an important role in their ecosystem as seed disperses.

They feed on seeds and other vegetation, and their droppings help fertilize the soil, encouraging plant growth.

They are also an important food source for predators such as jackals, eagles, and owls.

3. Wallaroos

Wallaroos are a type of marsupial native to Australia. They are often confused with kangaroos, but they are smaller and have shorter ears.

What makes them unique is their ability to walk on two legs, using their strong hind legs to hop and balance. 

These amazing animals can cover great distances by hopping and reaching up to 30 miles per hour.

They can use their front legs to grab and hold onto food and are known to eat various plants. 

Wallaroos are often found in rocky habitats and have adapted to the harsh conditions of the Australian Outback.

They can conserve water by producing dry feces and go without drinking for long periods. 

Unfortunately, like many Australian marsupials, wallaroos are threatened by habitat loss and hunting.

However, conservation efforts are underway to protect these fascinating animals and their unique ability to walk on two legs.

4. Silverback Gorillas

When it comes to animals that walk on two legs, Silverback Gorillas are perhaps one of the most impressive examples.

These massive primates are known for their incredible strength and power. They can easily move about on two legs. 

While gorillas typically use all fours to get around, they can walk upright for short distances.

This is particularly true for adult males, known as silverbacks, which can weigh up to 400 pounds and stand over six feet tall.

When a silverback walks on two legs, it’s a truly awe-inspiring sight. But why do gorillas sometimes walk on two legs?

It’s believed that this behavior is related to their need to navigate through dense forest environments.

Standing upright allows them to see farther ahead and navigate difficult terrain more easily.

Additionally, it may serve as a display of dominance or strength when confronted by rivals.

Regardless of the reason, watching a silverback gorilla walk on two legs is an incredible experience.

These magnificent animals are a testament to the amazing diversity of animals that walk on two legs.

5. Rockhopper Penguin

Rockhopper penguins are fascinating animals with a unique way of walking on two legs.

They are found in the southern hemisphere and are known for their distinctive yellow and black crests on their heads. 

Unlike other penguins that waddle, rockhopper penguins hop on their two legs to navigate the rough terrain of their natural habitat.

They are agile and quick on their feet, allowing them to easily climb cliffs and rocks to reach their nests. 

Rockhopper penguins are social animals and live in colonies that can consist of thousands of individuals.

They are also great swimmers, diving up to 100 feet to catch their prey, which can include fish, krill, and squid. 

However, rockhopper penguins face several threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

As sea ice retreats, it can affect the food sources of these penguins, leading to declining populations. 

6. Raccoons

Raccoons are one of the most recognizable animals that walk on two legs.

These intelligent creatures are known for their cunning behavior, distinctive masks, and ability to adapt to urban environments.

While they are typically seen walking on all fours, they have been known to walk upright for short distances, especially when carrying food or objects.

Raccoons are nocturnal animals primarily active at night, making it easier for them to navigate their surroundings and avoid predators.

Their keen sense of smell, excellent hearing, and sharp vision help them to find food and identify potential threats.

Raccoons are omnivores that feed on various foods, including fruits, nuts, insects, and small animals.

Although raccoons are known for their cute and playful behavior, they can also be aggressive when threatened or cornered.

Their sharp claws and teeth can cause serious injury to humans and other animals. It is important to treat raccoons with caution and respect their space.

In summary, raccoons are fascinating animals that walk on two legs, even if it’s not their primary mode of transportation.

They are highly adaptable and intelligent creatures that have adapted well to living in urban and rural environments.

While they are cute and entertaining to watch, it is important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated cautiously.

7. Quokkas

The quokka is a small marsupial found in Western Australia. It is known for its friendly and curious nature and has even been called the “world’s happiest animal.”

What sets the quokka apart from other animals that walk on two legs is that they have adapted to hop on two legs, similar to a kangaroo.

Despite their cute and cuddly appearance, quokkas are wild animals that humans should not approach or feed. They are considered a vulnerable species.

Quokkas primarily feed on vegetation such as leaves and grasses and can survive in dry environments by obtaining moisture from their food.

They can also enter a state of torpor in extreme heat or drought conditions.

The quokka is a unique and fascinating animal that deserves our respect and protection.

If you ever can visit Western Australia, watch for these adorable hoppers.

8. Pangolins

Pangolins are unique creatures known for their distinct appearance and fascinating behaviors.

While primarily walking on all fours, they can also walk on their hind legs when needed.

Pangolins have a specialized adaptation in their front limbs, which allows them to curl up into a ball for protection.

This behavior, known as “balling up,” is their primary defense mechanism against predators.

When threatened, they will roll into a tight ball, with their sharp scales acting as armor to ward off attackers.

Despite their impressive defensive abilities, pangolins face significant threats in the form of poaching and habitat loss.

They are the most trafficked mammals in the world, largely due to the demand for their scales and meat in traditional Asian medicine.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique creatures and ensure their survival for future generations.

Pangolins are truly remarkable animals, demonstrating the incredible diversity and adaptability of the natural world.

9. Ostriches

Another animal that walks on two legs is the ostrich, the largest living bird in the world.

They are found in the savannas and grasslands of Africa and can reach up to 9 feet tall and weigh up to 320 pounds.

Despite their size, ostriches are incredibly fast and can run up to 45 miles per hour.

They also have strong legs that kick predators, such as lions or hyenas, with deadly force.

Ostriches are known for their distinctive appearance, with long necks, small heads, and large eyes.

Although they are flightless birds, their wings are still functional and used for balance and display during mating rituals.

Interestingly, ostriches also have a unique digestive system that allows them to swallow stones, which help grind up the food in their stomachs.

This adaptation is necessary for their survival in harsh environments where food can be scarce.

10. Polar Bears

When most people think of polar bears, they imagine them walking on all fours across the Arctic ice.

However, these majestic creatures can walk on two legs like humans.

This is usually done for short periods, such as when they need to stand up to get a better view of their surroundings or to reach for something with their front paws. 

In addition to walking on two legs, polar bears are also skilled swimmers, capable of covering long distances in the icy waters of the Arctic.

They are incredibly powerful animals, weighing up to 1,500 pounds and possessing a thick layer of fat that helps keep them warm in their habitat’s frigid temperatures. 

While polar bears are impressive animals that walk on two legs, they also face significant threats to their survival.

Climate change and habitat loss are causing their populations to decline, and we must take action to protect these incredible creatures.

By supporting conservation efforts and changing our lives to reduce our environmental impact, we can help ensure that polar bears and other animals that walk on two legs have a bright future.

11. Kangaroos

Kangaroos are one of the most well-known animals that walk on two legs.

These marsupials are native to Australia and are known for their powerful hind legs that allow them to hop at incredible speeds.

They can reach up to 56 kilometers per hour, making them one of the fastest animals on two legs.

Kangaroos are herbivores and mainly eat grass and other vegetation. They can conserve water and go for long periods without drinking.

While kangaroos may seem like gentle giants, they can also be aggressive and territorial. They have been known to box and kick with their powerful legs if they feel threatened.

Kangaroos are a significant part of Australian culture and are even featured on the country’s coat of arms.

They are a unique and fascinating animal that captures people’s attention worldwide.

12. Mountain Gorilla

Mountain gorillas are a subspecies of the Eastern gorilla. They live in the dense forests of the Virunga Mountains, located on the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

They are one of the most endangered animals in the world, with only an estimated 1,000 individuals left in the wild. 

Mountain gorillas are the largest primates on earth known for their distinctive physical characteristics, such as their thick fur and pronounced brow ridge.

They are also one of the few species of primates that live in groups, known as troops, consisting of up to 30 individuals led by a dominant male, also known as a silverback. 

Despite their large size, mountain gorillas are generally peaceful and shy creatures.

They are primarily herbivores, feeding on bamboo, leaves, and stems, but can eat small animals on rare occasions. 

Conservation efforts have been put in place to help protect the remaining population of mountain gorillas.

These efforts include habitat protection, anti-poaching patrols, and ecotourism initiatives, which have provided economic benefits to local communities while raising awareness about the need for conservation.

13. Kultarr

The Kultarr is a small marsupial native to Australia. It is nocturnal and walks on two legs.

Kultarrs have long, powerful hind legs that they use to move quickly and gracefully across the ground.

They are known for their distinctive hopping gait, which allows them to move quickly and easily through their desert habitat.

Kultarrs are also adept climbers who can climb trees and structures with strong hind legs.

Despite their small size, Kultarrs are tough and agile animals that have adapted well to life in the harsh Australian desert.

They are an important part of the desert ecosystem, crucially controlling insect populations and helping maintain the delicate balance.

Overall, the Kultarr is a fascinating and unique animal that testifies to the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom.

As one of the many animals that walk on two legs, it reminds us how animals have evolved to adapt to their environments and survive in the wild.

14. Meerkats

Meerkats are small mammals that belong to the mongoose family.

These creatures are known for their cute, cuddly appearance and incredible ability to walk on two legs. Yes, that’s right – meerkats are animals that walk on two legs!

Meerkats have adapted to their environment by developing a bipedal stance, which allows them to stand tall and survey their surroundings.

They often use this upright posture to look out for predators or potential prey.

This also allows them to communicate through various postures and gestures with other group members.

Aside from their unique way of walking, meerkats are fascinating creatures for various reasons.

They are highly social and live in large family groups known as mobs or clans.

Meerkats are also incredibly intelligent and can exhibit complex problem-solving abilities.

In addition to their impressive physical and mental abilities, meerkats are also beloved for their playful and curious personalities.

No wonder these little creatures have captured the hearts of so many animal lovers!

15. Jerboa

Jerboas are small mammals that belong to the rodent family. They are native to the deserts of Africa and Asia and are known for their ability to walk on two legs.

Jerboas have long hind legs, which allow them to hop and jump like kangaroos. They use their front legs to maintain balance while they move around.

Jerboas can cover up to 10 feet in a single jump, an incredible feat for a creature of their size.

One of the interesting things about jerboas is that they are nocturnal animals, which means they are most active at night.

They use their excellent hearing to locate insects and other small animals that they feed on. In the wild, jerboas have a lifespan of around three to five years.

Overall, jerboas are a fascinating example of animals that walk on two legs.

They have adapted to their desert habitat uniquely, allowing them to move quickly and efficiently while conserving energy.

If you ever can see a jerboa in person, take a closer look at its impressive legs!

16. Humans

Humans are the most well-known and influential creatures that walk on two legs.

Unlike other animals that walk on two legs, humans have taken bipedalism to a new level.

Our ability to walk upright has allowed us to develop complex societies, build towering structures, and explore the farthest reaches of our planet. 

But our intelligence and communication ability sets humans apart from other animals that walk on two legs.

We have developed language, art, and technology, which allows us to create and innovate in ways that no other species can.

Humans have also developed a sense of self-awareness and the ability to contemplate our existence and place in the world. 

However, being an animal that walks on two legs also has challenges.

Our upright posture strains our backs and joints, leading to various physical ailments.

It also means that we have a longer infancy than other animals, as it takes longer to develop the necessary strength and coordination to walk.

17. Hopping Mice

Hopping mice, or kangaroo mice, are a group of rodents found in Australia.

As their name suggests, they hop on their hind legs, much like kangaroos, using their long tails for balance.

These small but speedy animals are active at night, using their powerful legs to hop up to 2 meters in a single bound.

One of the unique features of hopping mice is their ability to conserve water in their bodies.

They do this by producing concentrated urine and dry feces, which reduces their need for water.

Hopping mice also have a unique ability to enter a state of torpor, reducing their metabolism and conserving energy during extreme heat or drought.

In addition to their physical abilities, hopping mice play an important role in their ecosystem.

They feed on insects and seeds, and their burrows provide homes for other animals, such as snakes, lizards, and insects.

Despite their small size, hopping mice have adapted to survive in the harsh Australian environment.

Their unique abilities and importance in their ecosystem make them a fascinating example of animals that walk on two legs.

18. Grizzly Bears

Grizzly bears are magnificent creatures that roam the forests of North America.

While they are primarily known for their powerful and intimidating presence, it may surprise some that grizzly bears also walk on two legs.

Although grizzlies primarily move on all fours, they can stand up and walk on their hind legs when necessary.

This bipedal posture allows them to reach high vegetation, stand taller to survey their surroundings or intimidate potential threats.

The ability to walk on two legs is just one of the many incredible adaptations that grizzly bears possess.

Their immense size and strength make them one of the largest land mammals in North America.

Grizzlies have a keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food sources such as fish, berries, and other small animals.

They are also excellent swimmers and climbers, highly adaptable to their natural habitat.

Grizzly bears play a crucial role in the ecosystems they inhabit. As omnivores, they help control populations of prey animals and disperse seeds through their feces.

However, habitat loss and hunting have greatly affected their populations, leading to their status as a threatened species in many areas.

Despite their powerful stature and the occasional ability to walk on two legs, grizzly bears are wild animals and can be dangerous.

Understanding and appreciating their unique characteristics is crucial for their conservation and the preservation of their habitats.

19. Galapagos Penguins

The Galapagos penguin is the only species of penguin found north of the equator.

These small penguins reside on the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador.

They are well-adapted to the warm climate and can survive up to 32°C (90°F).

Their unique way of walking on two legs sets the Galapagos penguin apart.

They have short legs and waddle when on land, but when in the water, they can propel themselves by using their legs as flippers.

They are the second-smallest penguin species, standing 19 inches tall and weighing only about 5 pounds.

Unfortunately, the Galapagos penguin is considered an endangered species due to the negative impacts of human activities on their natural habitats.

Invasive species such as feral cats, rats, and dogs have killed off many of their food sources and destroyed their nests.

Conservation efforts are currently underway to protect the Galapagos penguin.

20. Gibbons

Gibbons are small, agile apes native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia known for their remarkable ability to walk on two legs.

Gibbons have long arms and powerful upper bodies, allowing them to swing from tree branches easily.

However, they can also walk bipedally on the ground, using their long arms to maintain balance. 

One interesting fact about gibbons is that they are among the fastest and most agile primates when moving through trees.

They can travel up to 35 miles per hour and leap distances of up to 50 feet. Gibbons also have unique vocal abilities and are known for their loud, melodic songs.

Despite their impressive physical abilities, gibbons face numerous threats to survival.

Deforestation, habitat loss, and illegal pet trade are major challenges for these animals.

Conservation efforts are crucial to protect gibbons and ensure their continued existence in the wild.

Gibbons are truly fascinating creatures and prime examples of animals that walk on two legs.

Their agility, strength, and unique vocalizations make them a captivating species to study and appreciate in the animal kingdom.

21. Frilled Dragon

Frilled dragons, also known as frill-necked lizards, are a unique species of reptile found in Australia and New Guinea.

These fascinating creatures get their name from the large frill of skin that extends from their necks.

While they primarily move on all fours like other lizards, frilled dragons can stand up on their hind legs and run bipedally when threatened or in territorial displays.

When a frilled dragon feels threatened, it will open its mouth wide, displaying its colorful frill and making itself appear larger and more intimidating to potential predators or rivals.

Frilled dragons are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into their environment by changing the color of their skin.

They are mainly insectivorous, feeding on a diet of small insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. These reptiles have a lifespan of around ten years in the wild.

Despite their fearsome appearance and bipedal abilities, frilled dragons are generally non-aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontation.

They are primarily arboreal, spending most of their time in trees and bushes.

Their unique features and behaviors make them a fascinating addition to the world of animals that walk on two legs.

22. Flamingos

Flamingos are a familiar sight in zoos and wildlife parks around the world. They are best known for their striking pink plumage and long, skinny legs.

What many people don’t realize, however, is that flamingos are also one of the few animals that walk on two legs.

Flamingos spend most of their time standing on one leg, a behavior that has puzzled scientists for decades.

While there is no definitive answer to why flamingos stand on one leg, many theories suggest that it is related to energy conservation.

Standing on one leg can reduce flamingos’ body surface area and conserve body heat.

Additionally, standing on one leg may allow them to rest their muscles and avoid fatigue.

Despite their unusual posture, flamingos are highly adapted to their aquatic environment.

They have large, webbed feet that help them navigate through shallow waters, and they can filter feed by sifting through mud and sediment with their unique bill.

These adaptations make flamingos highly efficient hunters and important members of their ecosystem.

Flamingos are an interesting example of an animal adapted to walk on two legs for specific purposes.

Whether standing on one leg or foraging for food, these birds are a testament to the incredible diversity of the natural world.

23. Dorcopsis

Another fascinating animal that walks on two legs is the Dorcopsis. This small marsupial is native to New Guinea and surrounding islands.

Dorcopsis has powerful hind legs to hop and move around like kangaroos and wallabies.

They can jump up to 10 feet in a single hop. However, Dorcopsis is different from kangaroos and wallabies in that they can walk on two legs for short periods, just like humans. 

Dorcopsis have elongated hind limbs with specialized joints that allow them to easily shift from hopping to walking on two legs.

These little marsupials stand about 30 cm tall and have brown or grey fur.

They are usually in dense rainforests where they forage on insects, fruits, and leaves. Dorcopsis are solitary animals and are usually active at night. 

Dorcopsis is a great example of the amazing variety of animals that walk on two legs.

It is fascinating to see how different animals have evolved to use their hind legs in unique ways, from hopping to walking on two legs like humans.

24. Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees are perhaps the most well-known animals that walk on two legs, next to humans.

These intelligent primates can stand up and walk on their hind legs, although they usually prefer to walk on all fours.

They can do so for short periods, especially when carrying something in their hands or searching for food.

Chimpanzees are native to central and west Africa and are highly social animals.

They are known for their communication skills, using a combination of vocalizations and gestures to convey messages to one another.

They also use tools to forage for food, such as sticks to extract insects from trees or rocks to crack open nuts.

Due to their close genetic relation to humans, chimpanzees have been the subject of extensive research.

They have been observed exhibiting behavior that resembles human culture, such as teaching their young and mourning their dead.

Unfortunately, chimpanzees face habitat loss and hunting, and protecting their populations and ecosystems is important.

25. Black Bears

Black bears are another example of an animal that walks on two legs, although they primarily move on all fours.

They can stand up and walk on their hind legs when necessary.

This bipedal posture allows them to reach high vegetation, look taller to survey their surroundings or intimidate potential threats. 

Black bears are large and powerful creatures found in North America.

They have a keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food sources such as berries, nuts, insects, and small animals.

Despite their size, black bears are agile climbers and excellent swimmers. 

Black bears play a crucial role in the ecosystems they inhabit. As omnivores, they help control populations of prey animals and disperse seeds through their feces.

However, like other species mentioned in this blog post, black bears face habitat loss and hunting threats.

Conserving their populations and protecting their natural habitats is important to ensure their continued existence.

26. Bettong

Bettongs are small marsupials native to Australia. These unique creatures are known for their ability to walk on two legs and use their powerful hind legs to hop and move around.

Bettongs have a distinctive hopping gait that allows them to cover long distances efficiently. They use their front legs for balance and to manipulate objects. 

Bettongs are primarily nocturnal and spend their days in burrows that they dig. They have a diverse diet, feeding on various plants, fungi, seeds, and insects. 

Unfortunately, many species of bettongs are endangered due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve these fascinating animals and their habitats.