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.