IUCN Conservation Status –
Least Concern
Extinct In The Wild
Class: Mammals
Order: Diprotodontia
Family: Macropodidae
We are home to 5 male red-necked wallabies, who share their exhibit with our swamp wallabies, behind Matobo.
The red-necked wallaby is a medium-sized marsupial native to eastern and southeastern Australia, as well as Tasmania. Its name comes from the distinctive reddish tinge of fur on its shoulders and neck. These wallabies are part of the macropod family, which also includes kangaroos, known for their large hind legs and powerful tails used for hopping and balance.
Interesting facts!
- Red-necked wallabies can hop at speeds of up to 48 km/h and cover up to 2 meters in a single bound, making their movement both efficient and energy-saving.
- While known for hopping, red-necked wallabies are also strong swimmers. They’ll often seek water to cool off or escape predators.
- Female wallabies have a built-in nursery! Their joeys stay in the pouch for around 9 months, continuing to return for milk even after venturing outside.
- These wallabies communicate through thumps, hisses, and cough-like sounds. Thumping the ground with their powerful hind legs warns others of nearby danger.
Conservation
Although classified as Least Concern on IUCN Red List, red-necked wallabies face threats in some areas due to habitat destruction, competition with introduced species, and road accidents. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and monitoring populations in the wild.