About This Species
The Parma wallaby (Macropus parma) is a small macropod species currently listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN. These wallabies are relatively small, with a body length of 45-55cm, excluding the tail, which is roughly the same length. They typically weigh around 5kg and have thick, brownish-grey fur on their upper body and light grey fur on their underside. Their shoulders and upper arms often have a brownish tinge, and they may have a white moustache-like marking. Males are generally larger and more robust than females.
Threats They Face
Parma wallaby populations face several threats that have restricted their range to Northern NSW:
Predation by Feral Animals: Introduced predators such as foxes, wild dogs, and feral cats pose a significant threat to Parma wallabies, particularly juveniles.
Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: Clearing of forests for agriculture, development, and other land uses reduces their available habitat and isolates populations.
Habitat Degradation: Activities like under scrubbing (removal of undergrowth) further degrade their habitat by removing crucial shelter and food sources.
These combined threats have significantly impacted Parma wallaby populations and contributed to their Near Threatened status.
How Aussie Ark Is Helping
Aussie Ark is actively working to protect Parma Wallabies. Our efforts focus on:
Creating an Insurance Population: By establishing a robust captive breeding program, Aussie Ark aims to create a safeguard against further population declines in the wild. This insurance population will ensure the species’ long-term survival.
Feral Predator Control: Aussie Ark often implements feral predator control programs within their sanctuaries and project areas, which could indirectly benefit Parma Wallabies by reducing predation pressure.
Habitat Restoration and Protection: Aussie Ark may be involved in efforts to restore and protect suitable habitat for various native species, which could include areas inhabited by Parma Wallabies.
Advocacy and Education: Aussie Ark contributes to raising public awareness about the threats facing native wildlife and advocates for conservation efforts, which indirectly benefits all threatened species.