Originally from Australia, these long jumpers are the residents farthest from Hof van Eckberge. Their extra-sized enclosure (which we expanded in 2020) gives them plenty of room to jump around and play. The little ones, also called "Joey's," look out of the pouch in sunny weather to see if the environment is safe. If everything looks good, they will take the plunge and explore the enclosure. Have you spotted a little Wallaby yet?
These wallabies can make jumps as far as 9 meters! They are not high jumpers. While jumping, they do not use the front legs. When they are eating they move very slowly. They use their long tail and short front legs first. Then they bring forward their hind legs.
Wallaby habitat
Bennett's wallabies are found in Tasmania and eastern Australia. Here they are found mainly in forests, grasslands and extensive heathlands. The forests consist of eucalyptus trees and low shrubs. Wallabies live in groups of up to 30 animals.
Appearance wallaby
| Weight |
Males up to 20 kg and females up to 12 kg |
| Age |
19 years |
| Number of youngsters |
1, but she can suckle 2 at the same time |
| Gestation period |
1 month |
Propagation
The Bennett wallaby reproduces during the months of January through June. They are fertile from eight months of age. After a month, a Joey (young) is born. When a Joey is born, it can crawl across the belly to the pouch by itself. This Joey is no bigger than a garden bean, is completely naked and blind and weighs less than an ounce. After three to five months, his eyes and ears open and his fur begins to grow. Starting at five months, young Joey's can come out of the pouch to explore the environment. In the beginning, young Joey's return regularly to drink from their mother. At the age of one, the wallaby is independent and can take care of itself.
Food in nature
The Bennett's wallaby is an herbivore. It eats grass, young twigs from trees and shrubs. To get moisture, they eat succulent tree roots or dig a hole to find water.
Food at Hof van Eckberge
At our place, the Bennett's wallabies are fed kangaroo pellets, apples, carrots and endive. They also get hay and branches to gnaw on.
Did you know that...?
- The young of the Bennett's wallaby is called a "Joey" just like a kangaroo cub?
- A female Bennett's wallaby can give and produce 2 types of milk at the same time? A newborn Joey needs a different type of milk than a 9-month-old Joey.
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