Dama wallabies (Macropus eugenii) were first introduced to New Zealand on Kawau Island in the 1870s and around the southern end of Lake Okareka (Rotorua) in 1912. They soon extended their range to the north and east, and were first recorded in the Waikato region during the 1950s.
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Dama wallabies are considered a potential pastoral and environmental pest, grazing on grasses and on native vegetation. When present in high numbers they can cause considerable damage to native species, altering the present and future composition of native forests.
What wallabies look like
Dama wallabies are one of the smallest wallaby species, standing up to half a metre tall and weighing between five to seven kilograms. They vary significantly in size depending on the food resources available in different habitats.
Dama wallabies have a grey brown coat that is paler in colour on their underside. The males have reddish coloured shoulders. They have a long grey tapering tail and long pointed ears. When alerted, dama stand upright with their forelimbs held out from the chest ready to run. They are usually nocturnal but are sometimes seen late in the afternoon.
Where you can find them
Dama wallabies prefer forest margin, or ‘edge’, habitats where they can find cover during the day and graze at night. They feed on grasses, manuka and kanuka, kamahi, mahoe, hangehange, pigeonwood, supplejack, rangiora and broadleaf. In exotic forests, dama tend to concentrate on grasses and weeds, but also damage young saplings.
Currently the number of wallabies in the region is low. However, due to the Waikato’s abundant suitable habitat, there would be significant threat to the region if their numbers increase. Today, the largest population of dama wallaby in the Waikato region is located at Tumunui, with smaller populations at Ngakuru and Waikite. The Waikato River acts as a natural barrier, however deliberate releases for hunting, or the liberation of pets, may extend their range further.
Responsibility for control
Environment Waikato is responsible for undertaking wallaby control in the Waikato region. The Regional Pest Management Strategy aims to reduce to zero density by 2013 all known populations (as at 1 July 2007) of dama wallaby in the Waikato region and reduce towards zero density any additional infestations of dama wallaby that are identified. Once reduced to low levels, efforts will be focused on preventing re-introduction and spread of dama wallaby back into the region.
No one can capture, keep or convey any wallaby unless permitted to do so by the Department of Conservation. Environment Waikato will carry out direct control of dama wallabies for environmental protection purposes. This will be done in conjunction with the Department of Conservation and neighbouring regional councils.
Controlling wallabies
Shooting is one of the best methods for private land owners wanting to undertake wallaby control. Night shooting is effective, provided it is carried out safely and intermittently. Dama wallabies, as with possums, can become ‘gun-shy’ and wary of spotlights. Late afternoon shooting when wallaby are grazing, may also be effective.
Every person shooting must either hold a firearms licence, or be under supervision of a person who holds a firearms licence and is over 20 years of age. You should inform your neighbours where and when you intend to shoot. This may be a good opportunity to co-ordinate with your neighbours to eradicate dama wallaby from your area.
When night shooting ensure your spot light battery is fully charged and you know the area well. Be sure to positively identify your target before shooting.
Useful contacts
For additional advice and information and to obtain pest control products, contact your local farm supply store or nearest Biosecurity Animal Pest Contractor for the Waikato region.
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