One of the most unusual and eye-catching members of the kangaroo family. Unlike the familiar hopping kangaroos of Australia, this species lives in the trees of the mountain rainforests of Papua New Guinea. It has adapted to life in the forest canopy with powerful limbs, a long tail for balance, and a surprisingly agile climbing ability. Named after British zoologist Walter Goodfellow, this rare and beautiful animal is a perfect blend of kangaroo and arboreal acrobat.

Goodfellow’s tree-kangaroo has a stocky body, strong forelimbs, and thick reddish-brown fur, often marked with golden stripes down its back and tail. Its face is round, with short ears and a gentle expression that gives it a teddy bear-like appearance. Unlike ground-dwelling kangaroos, its hind feet are broader and more flexible, and its claws are curved, allowing it to grip branches and climb with ease. It can leap between trees and descend with control — impressive feats for an animal that looks more suited for hopping than swinging.

These tree-kangaroos are herbivores, feeding mainly on leaves, fruit, flowers, and tree bark. They are solitary and shy, spending most of their time high up in the canopy, where they move slowly and carefully. Their strong tails, nearly as long as their bodies, help them balance as they navigate the narrow branches of tall trees. Unlike fast-moving monkeys, tree-kangaroos are deliberate and quiet — more like stealthy climbers than jumpers, though they can hop on the ground when needed.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Indonesia

2016

Papua

Papua New Guinea

2016