Central Australian Rock-wallaby

Petrogale lateralis centralis

Australia's Threatened Species Category

Vulnerable

Listed since: 30/01/2014

IUCN's Threatened Species Category

Vulnerable

Listed since: 17/03/2014

Population trend: Decreasing

Other names: Warru

Priority Species? No

The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.

Description

The Warru is a subspecies of the Black-flanked Rock-wallaby and the current populations are restricted to the MacDonnell Ranges through the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia. During the day they shelter under deep shade in rocky areas such as caves and cliffs and emerge at dusk to feed on grasses and shrubs.

Threats

Predation by foxes and feral cats have a significant impact on the species, particularly during peak breeding seasons. Further habitat degradation from intensive grazing and invasion of wood weeds is also likely to have an impact on this species.