Wallabies are small kangaroos. An adult Kangaroo below 22kg (40lbs) and with 25cm (10 inch) feet or less, is a Wallaby.

Kangaroos and wallabies are the only animal to hop as their main way of moving. They always hop at the same rate per minute, but lengthen the hop if they are in a hurry. Kangaroos can increase from a leisurely 1½m (5ft) to as much as 8m (27ft), when being chased.

Baby Wallabies and Kangaroos are born only the size of a grain of rice and grow inside their mothers' pouch.

Scientists have recently found a chemical in wallaby milk which is 100 times more effective against bacteria, such as E coli, than the strongest forms of penicillin.

Where they live
Tasmania, and S.E coastal strip of Australia

Habitat
Shrub, brushwood and open country. During the day wallabies tend to low in scrub or woodland, coming out in the evening to begin feeding in grassy clearings.

What they eat
Grasses, leaves and herbs.

Average lifespan
10 - 15 years.