Scientific name Petrogale brachyotis Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Genus Petrogale Higher classification Rock-wallaby | |
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Similar Unadorned rock‑wallaby, Rothschild's rock‑wallaby, Monjon, Godman's rock‑wallaby, Northern nail‑tail wallaby | ||
Short eared rock wallaby
The short-eared rock-wallaby (Petrogale brachyotis) is a species of rock-wallaby found in northern Australia, in the northernmost parts of Northern Territory and Western Australia. It is much larger than its two closest relatives, the nabarlek (Petrogale concinna) and the monjon (Petrogale burbidgei).
The short-eared rock-wallaby is a gregarious vegetarian, found in rocky hills and gorges. It is variable in its appearance but is generally grey-brown with white areas around its face and legs. It is not considered threatened.
In 2014 a genetic and morphological study identified a separate species, the Eastern short-eared rock-wallaby (Petrogale wilkinsi), previously thought to be P. brachyotis. It occurs in the Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, weighs less, and has stronger markings and colouring.
A number of subspecies have been recognised, but these may be invalid.
