Possible Causes of Mortality in The Yellow-Footed Rock-wallaby, Petrogale xanthopus Gray (Marsupialia: Macropodidae).

Abstract

The causes of mortality were analysed for 23 Yellow-footed Rock-wallabies, Petrogale xanthopus found on or near the dry bed of the Hamilton Creek in the North Flinders Ranges of South Australia. The results showed the Red Fox, Vulpes vulpes to be the more frequently identified predator. On the basis of size, 13 of the wallabies were classed as adult and seven were immature, while the remaining three were unknown. Three were male; seven were female, and 13 were of unknown sex. 15 of the 23 were found during the period April - July; the time of year when there is a peak of young leaving the pouch.