Endemic to the northwest Kimberley region of Western Australia, it lives in rugged sandstone cliffs, boulder piles, and caves, where its shy and elusive nature makes it hard to spot. It is about the size of a guinea pig, which is remarkable considering it belongs to the same family as kangaroos and wallabies. Its small body, delicate face, and soft brownish-gray fur help it blend perfectly with the rocky landscapes, while its lighter underbelly gives it a gentle, soft appearance.

Unlike its larger kangaroo relatives, the Monjon is a master of cliff-climbing and rock-hopping. With strong hind legs, padded feet, and a long, flexible tail, it can leap across boulders and scramble up steep rock faces with ease. This agility is essential for escaping predators and finding food on rocky terrain. Its diet is made up of grasses, leaves, ferns, and sometimes fruits, making it primarily a herbivore. Because the Kimberley environment is harsh and dry, the Monjon has adapted to survive with limited water, often obtaining moisture from the plants it eats.

While other wallabies may be seen grazing in open areas, the Monjon almost always stays close to rocky shelters. It emerges mostly at night to forage, staying hidden during the hot daytime hours. This secretive lifestyle means that even people living in the Kimberley rarely see one, making it a local mystery. In fact, it was only scientifically described in the 1970s, making it one of the last rock-wallabies to be formally recognized.

Unlike kangaroos, which can travel long distances for food, the Monjon is content to stay within its rocky neighborhood, rarely straying far from the safety of caves and ledges. Its small body also means it can squeeze into crevices that larger wallabies could never use, giving it a perfect hideout when danger approaches.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

NT

2024

Western Australia