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| Red-necked wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) |
Alien Species of the Week:
Red-Necked Wallaby
Whilst researching for this blog I was surprised by how many alien species there were that I hadn't even considered! So I thought I would briefly introduce a new alien species each week to show just how widespread and varied they can be.
This week I'm focusing on the Red-necked wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus). Originating from eastern Australia and Tasmania, this marsupial species was first introduced to Britain in 1975, with two pairs taken from Whipsnade Zoo. By 1993, the population grew to 26 individuals. This small colony of red-necked wallabies can be found on the island of Inchconnachan, Loch Lomond, Scotland.
Today, it is estimated that over 100 red-necked wallabies live and continue to thrive at four different sites across Britain, including the Isle of Man.
Although, they make an exciting tourist attraction, some environmentalists argue that these feral colonies of wallabies should not be allowed to thrive in Britain. Red-necked wallabies can damage the natural habitat by feeding on native plant species and are able to outcompete native species.
However, whether these small populations of wallabies are really a big threat to British wildlife depends on each individual’s opinion!
Below I have linked a short video by the BBC about the Scottish wallaby colonies-enjoy!!!
Did you know that wallabies have also lived wild in the Isle of Man for over 50 yrs as well!
ReplyDeletehttp://news.bbc.co.uk/local/isleofman/hi/people_and_places/nature/newsid_9096000/9096075.stm