Mammals
Grizzled Tree Kangaroo
Dendrolagus inustus · also called grizzled tree kangaroos
Moving with somewhat less agility than its smaller relatives, a grizzled tree kangaroo navigates the lowland rainforest canopy of New Guinea, its coarse, grizzled grey-brown coat distinguishing it from more brightly coloured tree kangaroo species.
Overview
The grizzled tree kangaroo, Dendrolagus inustus, is a Vulnerable mammal native to lowland rainforest habitat across parts of New Guinea and nearby islands. Its coarse grizzled coat, larger and heavier build among tree kangaroos, and preference for lowland rather than montane forest make it one of the more physically distinct members of the tree kangaroo family.
Size comes with a trade-off
The grizzled tree kangaroo’s larger, heavier build sets it apart from more agile tree kangaroo relatives, trading some climbing nimbleness for greater overall size within its lowland rainforest habitat.
Status
Vulnerable, with a declining population threatened by hunting and habitat loss across its range in New Guinea.
Grizzled Tree Kangaroo: common questions
Why is it called the grizzled tree kangaroo?
It shows a coarse grey-brown coat with a grizzled texture, a visual quality that gives the species its common name.
Is the grizzled tree kangaroo as agile a climber as other tree kangaroos?
Not quite; its larger, heavier build makes it somewhat less agile in the canopy compared to some smaller tree kangaroo species, though it still climbs and moves confidently through the trees.
Where does the grizzled tree kangaroo live?
It favours lowland rainforest habitat across parts of New Guinea and nearby islands, differing from some tree kangaroo relatives found at higher mountain elevations.
Why is the grizzled tree kangaroo vulnerable?
Its population is declining due to hunting and ongoing habitat loss across its range in New Guinea.