AGILE WALLABIES
Notamacropus agilis
DESCRIPTION
The Agile Wallaby is a slender, long-legged wallaby found across tropical northern Australia. It has grey-brown fur, a pale underside, large ears and a long powerful tail used for balance. As its name suggests, it is quick and agile when moving through open country.
QUICK FACTS
• Agile Wallabies are one of the most commonly seen wallabies across the Top End.
• They are most active during the cooler parts of the day, particularly early morning and late afternoon.
• Their powerful hind legs allow them to move quickly when threatened.
• Their long tail helps with balance while hopping.
• Females carry their young, called joeys, in a pouch.
• A joey gradually begins exploring outside the pouch before becoming fully independent.
• Agile Wallabies may gather in groups where good feeding areas are available.
WHERE IT LIVES
Agile Wallabies live across northern Australia in open woodland, tropical savanna, grasslands and areas around wetlands and floodplains. They are particularly common in the Top End and are often seen feeding in open grassy areas.
WHAT IT EATS
Agile Wallabies are herbivores. They mainly eat grasses but also browse on leaves, shoots and other vegetation, particularly when fresh growth is available.
PETE'S PHOTO STORY
Agile Wallabies are a familiar sight in Kakadu, but I still enjoy photographing them, especially in beautiful light. I photographed these two near Anbangbang Billabong in Kakadu, as the warm light filtered through the woodland. One turned and looked directly towards me while the other faced away, giving the photograph two completely different poses. The soft golden light and natural surroundings made a simple encounter feel special.