The wallaby is a species of marsupial that lives in Australia. It is notable for its medium size, being one of the largest. Its fur is brownish grey on the back and lighter on the belly. They are herbivores and feed mainly on grasses and leaves.

General characteristics

This is the smallest species of the genus macropus, weighing between 3.2 and 6kg, being much smaller than the red kangaroo Macropus rufus, currently the largest member.

The back is of a soft reddish or even greyish leather, and a much more accentuated shade of grey on the belly. The tail is black, and is the same length as the body.

In 1965, while controlling a plague of Macropus eugenii, it was discovered that several of the specimens in the group were not of this species, but were instead Parma wallabies, which had managed to survive, having long since been considered extinct.

Feeding

It is mainly herbivorous, and its diet consists of a variety of grasses, herbs and leaves. In addition, they consume shoots and tender branches of shrubs. These marsupials may also feed on some flowers and fruits when available.

Their diet is adapted to their natural habitat in Australia’s wooded and grassland areas, where they can find a wide range of vegetation to meet their nutritional needs.

Behaviour

It is known for its elegant appearance and captivating behaviour. These marsupials are social creatures that often live in small groups known as “mobs”. Within these groupings, they establish strong social bonds through interactions such as mutual grooming and play.

Their behaviour is mainly crepuscular, i.e. they are most active during dawn and dusk. During the day, they rest in shady, safe areas, moving to open areas to feed at night. Parma wallabies are agile jumpers, using their powerful hind legs to propel themselves in impressive leaps.

In addition to their jumping ability, they are known for their ability to communicate through a variety of vocalisations, including grunts, squeaks and foot tapping. These vocalisations play a crucial role in group coordination and warning of potential dangers.

Reproduction

The Parma wallaby breeds throughout the year. After a gestation period of about one month, the female gives birth to an extremely underdeveloped calf, which crawls into the mother’s marsupial pouch and completes its development there for several months.

The calf feeds on its mother’s milk and remains in the pouch until it is mature enough to go out and explore the environment. This process highlights the importance of the marsupial pouch in the survival of this species.

Threats

Despite its charm and adaptability, the Parma wallaby faces significant challenges in its natural environment. Habitat loss due to urbanisation and predation by introduced species are constant threats to their survival. Conservation of these magnificent marsupials is not only crucial to preserve Australia’s biodiversity, but also to better understand the links that exist within natural ecosystems.

Distribution

It is endemic to eastern Australia, specifically the coastal regions of Queensland and New South Wales. Its natural habitat includes woodland, scrub and grassland areas.

However, their distribution has been reduced due to habitat loss and other anthropogenic factors. They are mainly found in protected areas and nature reserves where they can find greater protection and adequate resources for their survival.

Did you know? 

Unlike other wallabies, the Parma wallaby has adapted to feed on a wide variety of plants, including native and introduced species.

The social groupings of the Parma wallaby are dominated by females, often in matriarchal relationships.

The breeding of the Parma wallaby is remarkable for its unique adaptation to the Australian environment.

Conservation status