Biology

On the ground, Doria's tree kangaroo moves in a similar manner to its Australian relatives, making small leaps on its two hindfeet (4), while in the trees, this agile marsupial moves using all four limbs (2) (4). It travels along branches and trunks grasping the tree's limbs with its clawed forepaws and pushing with its broad feet (3), and can leap as much as nine metres downwards to a neighbouring tree (2). Doria's tree kangaroo spends much of its time in the relative safety of the trees, often sheltering in small groups during the day, but it will also frequently descend to the ground, by moving backwards down the trunk, or jumping impressive heights (up to 18 metres) down to the forest floor, without injury (2). Doria's tree kangaroo feeds whilst up in the trees, or down on the ground, consuming a diet of primarily leaves and fruit (2). As it moves about, the males may vigorously rub the large glands on their throat and chest against the tree branches and trunk (3) (6). The scented secretions that are left behind act as signposts to other tree kangaroos, providing information about an individual's identity and location (6). The gestation period in this species is thought to last for around 32 days, with just one tiny, undeveloped infant being born at a time (2). After climbing up the mother's fur into her pouch, the newborn tree kangaroo will clamp its mouth onto one of the four teats and remain there for the next 305 days, until it is developed enough to emerge (2).