The main difference is size. Wallabies are smaller than kangaroos. Wallabies grow to about 3 feet tall and weigh around 45 pounds. Kangaroos grow to about 8 feet tall and weigh 150 to 200 pounds. Another difference is coloring. Wallabies have brighter coats with two to three different color variations like gray bellies with red markings. Kangaroos have more muted, uniform coats of brown or gray. Additionally, adult wallabies have pouches for their young while adult female kangaroos do not. Finally, wallabies tend to live in more arid environments than kangaroos. In a fight, a kangaroo would easily beat a wallaby due to its larger size and strength.
Are wallabies good pets?
Do wallabies make good pets? A wallaby can make a good pet if given proper care. For example, wallabies need plenty of space to run and hide. Of the wallaby varieties, the Bennett’s needs the most room since it is the largest. Wallabies are marsupials native to Australia like the kangaroo but they are different species and smaller. In the United States, wallabies are seen around as pets. Lots of outdoor space is required to own them so they cannot be legally owned inside many city limits. Even without feeding, wallabies accept human presence if we show no aggression. But they may see us as a threat if we get too close. Wallabies used to being fed can approach people expecting food and become aggressive when none exists. An adult wallaby requires ample space. Most wallaby varieties, called “joeys”, are gentle creatures becoming popular pets as alternatives to dogs and cats. Wallabies are born underdeveloped then grow fully inside their mother’s pouch. They typically emerge around 7 months old. Like most exotics, the best pets are hand-raised and human-socialized. Wallaby species are grouped by habitat like bush, rock, nail-tailed, hare and forest. Although mostly solitary, wallabies sometimes live in groups. USDA guidelines for adopting a pet wallaby focus on safety and protection, not obstacles. States allowing pet wallabies with a permit are Arizona and Idaho. Key differences between wallabies and kangaroos are size-related since kangaroos are much larger. Both are marsupials in the Macropodidae family. Native to Australia and Papua New Guinea, wallabies were introduced to New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Of over 30 modern species, several are endangered or threatened and at least 5 are already extinct. No, wallabies don’t make good pets. Their dietary needs are very specific and caring for them is quite difficult. They need secure enclosures to exercise and forage. In most places it’s illegal to own one. Zoos house wallabies in large enclosures mimicking their natural habitats.
How friendly are wallabies?
Wallabies are generally social animals that can bond with their owners. They can be very cuddly and are known to follow people around rooms.
Wallabies are friendly creatures that can be very cordial with their caregivers. They can even coexist with other non-forceful house pets.
Some wallabies are docile and friendly while others are jumpy and anxious. They fare best in same-species groups because they live communally in the wild.
The average lifespan of an Australian wallaby species is 11-15 years.
Kangaroos and wallabies are often confused because they are similar in appearance and both belong to the marsupial family. Wallabies are smaller.
Adult male wallabies are referred to as “bucks”, “boomers”, or “jacks”.
If a wallaby has been raised in captivity and released into the wild it may approach you demanding food by scratching and biting.
Despite their cuteness, wallabies are better left in the wild or in zoos that specialize in caring for them.
Wallabies are similar to kangaroos but generally smaller. For people who live outside the city and have the space and dedication to accommodate them, wallabies can be endearing pets.
Wallabies are exotic wildlife not native to the US, and state laws vary regarding their status.
Wallabies are small to medium-sized hopping marsupials that live in Australia and New Guinea. Using hopping as their primary mode of locomotion, a large wallaby can easily cruise along at 25km/h.
Many visitors may mistake a wallaby for a miniature kangaroo. The biggest difference between wallabies and kangaroos is size.
Wallabies appreciate a slow approach and enjoy being petted, so once they get used to you they can be friendly.
The species most commonly kept in captivity is the Bennett’s wallaby. Although they are somewhat rare, they are becoming more common in the United States.
Are all wallabies kangaroos?
Wallabies are smaller than kangaroos. They have shorter hind legs and different teeth. Wallabies live in forests, kangaroos on open plains. Both belong to Macropodidae. The four largest of this group are called kangaroos.
Kangaroos and wallabies differ in: Size and weight – kangaroos larger and heavier. Body shape – kangaroos more muscular. Limb length – kangaroos’ longer for hopping. Kangaroos outnumber humans in Australia 2:1 – 50 million kangaroos versus 25 million people.
At dusk wallabies become active. Both can attack if feel threatened. Some species now threatened in NSW. Kangaroos much taller than wallabies due to leg length for speed on open terrain. Kangaroos up to 8 feet, 200 pounds. Wallabies up to 3 feet, 45 pounds. Color difference helps identify.