Tammar Wallaby

Hi! I’m a Tammar Wallaby

The Tammar Wallaby is the smallest species of Australian wallaby. Its historical range has been largely reduced by European colonialism, but fortunately stable populations exist. The species is very social, and a heirarchy exists within groups or 'mobs' of up to 50 individuals.

The National Zoo & Aquarium is home to 5 Tamar Wallabies: Samwise, Bilbo, Merriadoc, Pippin, and Frodo.

Facts

Taxonomy

Macropus eugenii

Population Movement

Stable

Current Animals

Frodo, Pippin, Meriadoc (Merry), Bilbo, Samwise

Life Span (captive)

Up to 15 years.

Weight

Male: 9.1 kg Female: 6.9 kg

Reproduction

Tammar wallabies have a polygynandrous mating system, were both males and females mate with multiple partners. They are a seasonal breeder with most births taking place in January and early February.

As with others of the macropod family they are able to go into embryonic diapause, meaning a fertilised embryo will enter a dormant state until either the older offspring is weaned or food becomes more plentiful.

Joeys remains in the pouch for 8 to 9 months until they are physically fully developed and are weaned at 10-11 months old.