Petrogale wilkinsi Thomas, 1926

Taxonomic Classification

Petrogale wilkinsi Thomas, 1926 is a species in the genus Petrogale, a diverse, widespread group of macropods related to kangaroos and wallabies.

Morphological Distinctions from Related Species

This species looks very similar to Petrogale brachyotis on the surface, but differs in several key traits: it has darker overall coloration, brighter fur on its limbs, and more distinct stripes along its head and flanks.

Adult Weight

Adult Petrogale wilkinsi weigh between 2.6 and 3.5 kilograms, or 5.7 to 7.7 pounds, making them smaller than the related western species.

Genetic Divergence

Deep genetic divergence in their mitochondrial DNA provides strong evidence that the ancestral lineage of this species is separate from related lineages.

Fur Coloration

The overall color of their fur coat is a mix of dark brown and grey.

Geographic Distribution

This species is distributed across the Top End region of the Northern Territory.