Conservation Spotlight
Keeping Yellow-footed Rock Wallabies on the Rocks: Integrating In- and Ex-Situ

Conservation in Australia and North America

Adrienne Miller

North American Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby Studbook Keeper, M & M TAG Studbook Advisor, Collection

Manager, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI 02907; (401) 785-3510 x310;

(401) 941-3988 (fax); happyhopping@yahoo.com

Abstract

The most successful species recovery programs incorporate many components; the work being

done with yellow-footed rock wallabies (Petrogale xanthopus xanthopus) involves three of the

most important ones: collaboration, conservation, and community involvement. Active captive

conservation work is occurring with both the North American and Australian populations. The

American Zoo and Aquarium Association is collaborating with the Australian Regional Association

of Zoological Parks Aquaria and Environment Australia to import new founder stock needed

to genetically revitalize the North American population. In-situ conservation work has involved

habitat reclamation and reintroduction projects. In an additional collaborative venture, some of

the same methodology used in the reintroduction project is being applied to work with tree

kangaroos in Papua New Guinea. The value of community involvement was shown to be essential

in the success of these projects.