A small, shy marsupial is found in the rainforests and dense woodlands of northeastern Australia, particularly in Queensland and parts of New Guinea. Like its relatives, the red-legged pademelon belongs to the kangaroo family, but it’s much smaller and more compact, built for life in thick undergrowth rather than open plains. It gets its name from the reddish coloring on its legs and underbelly, which contrasts with its otherwise soft, brownish-gray fur.

These pademelons are stocky and short, with a thick tail used for balance and support. Their faces are delicate, with dark eyes and short, rounded ears that give them a gentle appearance. Unlike larger kangaroos, red-legged pademelons don’t travel far or fast. Instead, they make quick, low hops through tight spaces in the forest, allowing them to stay hidden from predators and easily navigate through dense vegetation.

Red-legged pademelons are herbivores, feeding mainly on fallen leaves, fruit, grasses, and ferns. They usually forage during the early morning and late afternoon, resting in sheltered spots during the hotter parts of the day. Although generally solitary, they can sometimes be seen feeding in loose groups near the forest edge. When alarmed, they make thumping sounds with their hind legs or give short, sharp barks as a warning to others nearby.

Despite their secretive nature, red-legged pademelons are one of the few wild animals that still thrive in some areas near human activity, especially where patches of forest remain. Another interesting detail is females have a forward-opening pouch, where the young (called joeys) stay safe and continue to develop after birth. The joey may stay in the pouch for several months before beginning to explore the world outside.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

2015

Indonesia

2015

Papua New Guinea

2015