Tammar Wallaby

Physical Description

Tammar Wallabies are the smallest species of Wallaby, only reaching heights of around two feet and weights of 15-20 lb. Males are typically larger than females. Their coat of fur is short and dark grey in color though their sides may be red, and they may be tan underneath.

Predators

Dingoes are the main natural predator they face in the wild, but they also are preyed on by invasive species that were introduced to Australia, including foxes and feral cats. If they sense danger, they will give warning thumps with their hind legs.

Lifespan

In the wild, their average lifespan is under 10 years, but in human care, they live an average of 10-14 years.

Reproduction

Their gestation period is approximately 1 month, and the female will give birth to a single joey which will stay in the pouch for 8-9 months. The joey usually doesn’t poke out of the mother’s pouch until they are about 150 days old. The female may mate again after she gives birth but will pause the pregnancy for up to 11 months. This process is called embryonic diapause.

Fun Facts

• Their tail is extremely important. The average length is 15-17 inches long, and it has several functions. The tail will help provide balance and can be used as a rudder, but it can also function almost like a third leg when they are sitting.
• Wallabies live in groups called “mobs,” which may include up to 50 members. They have a fixed breeding season so that all offspring in the mob are born at the same time.

Conservation Messaging

Wallabies are currently listed as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, just like many other Australian species, they face many threats to their habitats. One major issue is logging and clearing land for agriculture and property development. More than 50% of Australia’s land mass is used for agricultural purposes!

One thing that we can do is support sustainable agriculture practices. By purchasing products that are certified such as Bird Friendly Coffee, you are helping in the conservation of forests and habitats around the world.