This is the amusing moment a zookeeper had a playful encounter with a kangaroo in China.

The woman was sweeping leaves when the joey tried to engage her in a mock brawl in Hubei, on October 19.

Footage shows the animal charging at the keeper, prompting her to quickly extend her arm to block the attack and protect herself from injury.

The animal even attempted to kick its 'opponent,' but the worker held it back with her grip. Moments later, she pushed the young roo and circled around a nearby tree to poke its back, causing it to stumble and fall onto the grass.

It eventually gave up and lay down on the grass.

Young kangaroos playfight to develop their fighting skills, an instinctive behavior. Adult males often engage in aggressive fights with other males to compete for mates.