Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby
Conservation Status: Near Threatened
Meet the Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby
The Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) is one of Australia’s most distinctive and charismatic marsupials. Named for its long, bushy tail, often tipped in dark brown or black, this agile climber is perfectly adapted to life among rugged cliffs, rocky outcrops, and steep escarpments.
Its thick, shaggy fur ranges in colour from rufous to grey-brown, blending seamlessly with its rocky surroundings. Adults typically weigh between 5–8kg, with powerful hind legs built for leaping across boulders and balancing on narrow ledges. These wallabies are naturally cautious, emerging from their rocky shelters mostly at dawn and dusk to feed on grasses, leaves, and native shrubs.
Once widespread along the Great Dividing Range, from northern Victoria to just northwest of Brisbane, Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby populations have suffered severe declines over the past century. Today, they survive in scattered, isolated colonies; a reminder of how fragile specialised species can be when their habitats are disrupted.
Did you know?
- The Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby’s tail is as long as its body, helping it balance while navigating steep and rocky terrain.
- They can leap up to 4 metres in a single bound.
- Wallabies in warmer climates tend to be lighter in colour than those in cooler southern regions.
Why They’re at Risk
- Habitat Loss & Fragmentation: Clearing for agriculture and urban development has destroyed and broken up much of their rocky habitat, leaving small, isolated populations vulnerable.
- Introduced Predators: Foxes, feral cats, and wild dogs prey on adults and joeys, placing immense pressure on already struggling populations.
- Other Threats: Bushfires, vehicle strikes, and extreme weather events linked to climate change also contribute to their decline.
Aussie Ark’s Conservation Work
Aussie Ark is committed to securing a future for the endangered Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby, focusing on breeding, reintroduction, and habitat protection.
- Breeding for the Future: Aussie Ark has established a specialised breeding program to maintain a healthy “insurance population” of Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallabies. These animals are vital for safeguarding genetic diversity and preventing further population loss.
- Reintroductions into Safe Havens: We are working to release Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallabies into secure, predator-free sanctuaries, giving them the best chance to thrive and rebuild their numbers.
- Habitat Protection & Restoration: By restoring and protecting rocky landscapes, we are ensuring that suitable wild habitat remains available for future generations of wallabies.
Together, these actions are giving the Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby a real chance at survival and helping restore balance to Australia’s fragile ecosystems.
How You Can Help
You can make a real difference! At Aussie Ark, we’re working tirelessly to protect Australia’s unique wildlife and restore their habitats. From Tasmanian Devils to Eastern Quolls, your support helps us care for endangered animals and preserve the beauty of our native bushland.
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Every dollar you give goes directly toward creating safe havens, providing medical care, and ensuring these amazing creatures have a future.
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Find out more about how we’re helping Brushed-Tailed Rock-Wallabies
Aussie Ark is stepping up to protect Australia’s wildlife at a time when it has never been more urgent. From building predator-proof sanctuaries and restoring vital habitats, to running world-leading breeding programs and reintroducing animals back into the wild, we are giving threatened species a fighting chance. Every action we take is about safeguarding the future of these animals and ensuring Australia’s unique wildlife can thrive for generations to come.
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