Australia Biota evolution, A Swamp Wallaby Click to enlarge image
A Swamp Wally Image: unknown
© unknown

Fast Facts

  • Classification
    Genus
    Wallabia
    Species
    bicolor
    Family
    Macropodidae
    Order
    Diprotodontia
    Subclass
    Marsupialia
    Class
    Mammalia
    Subphylum
    Vertebrata
    Phylum
    Chordata
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    66 cm - 85 cm

Introduction

The Swamp Wallaby is not as common in Sydney as it once was, but can still be found in a few places in its preferred habitat of thick forest undergrowth or sandstone heath.

Identification

This small, stocky wallaby has dark brown fur, often with lighter rusty patches on the belly, chest and base of the ears.

Alternative name/s:

Black Wallaby

Habitat

The preferred habitat of the Swamp Wallaby is thick forest undergrowth or sandstone heath.

Distribution

The Swamp Wallaby lives in eastern Australia, in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and south-eastern South Australia. Introduced in New Zealand.



Feeding and diet

The Swamp Wallaby feeds on a variety of plants including introduced and native shrubs, grasses and ferns.

Life history cycle

Like many marsupials, female Swamp Wallabies can suckle two joeys of different ages. The pouch life of each joey is eight to nine months, although they may continue to suckle until 15 months of age.

Breeding behaviours

Breeding occurs throughout the year in Swamp Wallabies.


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