Did you know, although they may be cute, wallabies are actually known as pests in New Zealand since they are not native, and rather introduced? The Bennet's wallaby is also known as a red-necked wallaby.
Description
Bennett's wallabies are sexually dimorphic (with two distinct gender forms). Males are larger than females: their shoulders and arms are wider and longer, and they grow approximately twice as fast as females. Females are generally lighter in color. They are covered with coarse, thick, tawny-gray fur on their body. The fur on the nape of their neck and shoulders is reddish. They have well-muscled hind legs and muscular tails that they use for balance while hopping or as a "third leg" while sitting. Females have well-developed frontal pouches for carrying developing young. Their muzzles, paws, and largest toes are black. They have a white stripe on their upper lip.
Status in the Wild
Bennett's wallabies have a stable population in their range. However, they are sometimes killed as an agricultural pest and are hunted for their meat. They are considered a pest species in New Zealand since they are not native there but rather are introduced.
Conservation Programs
Listed as "least concern" on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) Red List. As of 2008, the population is stable.