What is the Difference Between Red-Necked Wallaby and Black-Footed Rock Wallaby?

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The red-necked wallaby and the black-footed rock wallaby are both species of wallabies, which are marsupials belonging to the family Macropodidae. They have some differences in size, appearance, and habitat. Here are the key differences between the two:

Red-Necked Wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus):

  • Generally larger and heavier than the black-footed rock wallaby.
  • Common in southern Australia.
  • Lives in groups of up to 50 animals called "mobs".
  • Primarily solitary and emerges from dense vegetation to feed in open areas.
  • Can be found in various habitats, including dry forests and woodlands.

Black-Footed Rock Wallaby (Petrogale lateralis):

  • Also known as the black-flanked rock-wallaby or warru.
  • Smaller than the red-necked wallaby.
  • Has three subspecies with different distributions.
  • Generally greyish-brown with a paler belly and chest, a dark stripe running from its head down its spine, and a dark tail and feet.
  • Lives in groups of 10–100 individuals and forms lifelong pair bonds.
  • Inhabits rocky habitats, including boulder piles, cliffs, and gorges in dry eucalypt forests.

Both species are nocturnal and have powerful hind legs for jumping long distances. They also have a fur coat that can be colored grey, rufous, brown, black, or white.

Comparative Table: Red-Necked Wallaby vs Black-Footed Rock Wallaby

The Red-necked Wallaby (Notamacropus rufogriseus) and the Black-footed Rock Wallaby (Petrogale lateralis) are both marsupials, but they have some distinct differences in their appearance and behavior. Here is a table comparing the two species:

Feature Red-necked Wallaby Black-footed Rock Wallaby
Appearance - Black nose and paws - Dark-brown to black stripe running along the midline of the head from between the eyes and ears, down the neck and onto the back
- White stripe on the upper lip - Black-striped wallabies are generally smaller than Red-necked wallabies
- Grizzled medium grey coat with a reddish wash across the shoulders - Not very vocal
Behavior - Mainly solitary but forms social hierarchies in groups - Nocturnal animals that rest during the daytime
- Males are aggressive towards each other and fight by "boxing" - Cool off by licking their paws and forearms when nervously excited or in hot weather
Habitat - Found in eastern Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Isle of Man, France, and Germany - Limited information available, but they are likely found in rocky habitats

Please note that this comparison is not exhaustive, and more research may reveal additional differences between the two species.