Animal Profiles
Mammals

Wallaby

Macropodidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Wallaby is a common name for several smaller kangaroo relatives. This account describes the red-necked wallaby (Notamacropus rufogriseus), a grazer that rests in cover near open feeding ground.

Notamacropus rufogriseus (wallaby)

Representative species: Notamacropus rufogriseus.

Noodle snacks ( https://www.jjharrison.com.au/)Bennett's Wallaby) · CC BY-SA

At a glance

Habitat
Temperate forest, Grassland
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Grasses and herbs.

Classification

Common name
Wallaby
Browse group
Mammals
Scientific name or taxon
Macropodidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Diprotodontia
Family
Macropodidae
Source classification
Mammalia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • Its tail can act as a support.
  • Feeding often peaks around dusk and dawn.
  • The neck has reddish fur.

Habitat and range

Red-necked wallabies are native to eastern and southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. They favour forest or heath with nearby grassy openings. The cited account uses the older name Macropus rufogriseus.

Appearance and adaptations

Reddish fur around the neck and shoulders contrasts with the grey-brown body. Strong hind limbs support hopping, and the long tail acts as a support when resting or feeding.

Diet and behaviour

Grasses and herbs form most of the diet. Individuals feed especially around dusk and dawn, resting in shelter through much of the day. Usually solitary, they can gather where feeding conditions are favourable.

Sources

Explore mammals

Browse all mammals