Bennett's Wallabies
Closely related to kangaroos, Bennett’s wallabies, also known as red-necked wallabies, are medium-sized marsupials native to Australia. They are found throughout southeastern Australia, including Tasmania, King Island, and the Furneaux Group, as well as in small introduced populations in New Zealand and Britain. Males are typically larger than females, with an average height of 91 cm and weighing between 14 and 18 kg. Their fur is mostly tawny gray, with a white chest and belly, dark paws, and a distinctive reddish tint on the back of their neck and shoulders. These wallabies are known for their agility and adaptability. While hopping is their most efficient mode of travel, they can also crawl and even swim when necessary! With strong hind legs and elastic tendons, they conserve energy by storing and releasing force in each bounce, similar to a pogo stick. They also have keen senses, with large ears that can rotate 180 degrees independently to detect predators.
Diet
Bennett’s wallabies are herbivores, primarily grazing on grasses and leafy plants. During dry spells, they rely more on roots for moisture. They also have a specialised digestive system that ferments food using a dense bacterial population in the oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Some of their preferred grasses include those with seed heads.
FUN FACT
Bennett’s wallabies are most active at dawn and dusk, avoiding the midday heat. To cool down, they lick their forearms, which helps with heat loss. Though they are generally solitary, they sometimes gather in groups of up to 30 to feed. Males establish dominance through playful but competitive "boxing matches," where they punch, wrestle, and kick. Despite being native to Australia, small wild populations have been established in Britain, including on a Scottish island. A single Bennett’s wallaby mother can care for multiple babies at different stages – one joey hopping outside the pouch, another developing inside, and even an embryo on hold, waiting to be born. Even more impressively, she can produce two different types of milk at the same time – one rich and nutritious for the older joey and another specially formulated for the tiny newborn in her pouch.
HABITAT
Bennett’s wallabies inhabit eucalyptus forests, scrubland, and open grasslands, preferring areas with tree cover nearby for shelter. They are particularly common along the eastern coast of Australia and Tasmania. While they favour ridgelines and streamside vegetation, they are also adaptable and can be found in farmland and other open areas.
LIFE SPAN
Approximately 15 years in captivity.
Adopt a Bennett's Wallabies
With one Joey in the pouch and another on the way, our Bennett’s Wallaby is always multitasking. From fresh foliage to safe, cozy spaces, Wallabies need a lot of support. The Hero Package provides everything these pouch-protecting parents need to stay happy and healthy. Adopt a Wallaby today and be part of their growing family!
Please note that this animal is currently not available for a mini encounter.
Should you select the Hero package, we will provide you with a list of options of other animals to meet!
Please note that this animal is currently not available for a mini encounter.
Should you select the Hero package, we will provide you with a list of options of other animals to meet!
