Black-footed Rock-wallaby Petrogale lateralis
Photo: Timmy Toucan

Black-footed Rock-wallaby Petrogale lateralis

The current number of Black-footed Rock-wallabies found in the MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory, is not known but essential for the effective management of this species. The Foundation has funded a population census and assessment of potential predators of the Black-footed Rock-wallaby in this area.

The data collected ensures the wallabies continue to exist in the MacDonnell Ranges which makes sure the plants and animals that rely on this species will also remain. Counting the wallabies tells us how many wallabies are in the ranges so that comparisons can be made over time to make sure the population remains stable in the largest remaining stronghold in the Northern Territory.

The Black-footed Rock-wallaby is nationally vulnerable while the sub species found in the Northern Territory is near threatened. This subspecies is characterised by a dense coat of dark grizzled brown fur which changes to grey on the shoulders. A sandy cheek stripe marks the face. Other subspecies of Black-footed Rock-wallabies occur in Western Australia, and islands off the coast of South Australia.