Aussie Ark team excited to release 20 Rufous Bettongs into the ‘wild’

The team at conservation organisation Aussie Ark, are excited to be releasing 20 Rufous Bettongs today into the ‘wild’ of their 400ha Barrington Wildlife Sanctuary.

Conservation Manager Hayley Shute shares "the Rufous Bettong is a mysterious and enigmatic species native to Australia, and one of the most cherished species at Aussie Ark.

“It is an ancient relative of the kangaroo and often described as a 'living fossil', making the Rufous Bettong a true gem of the animal kingdom."

Like their kangaroo relatives, these Bettongs possess a unique blend of characteristics, including a pouch for their young and a distinctive hopping gait. But unlike a kangaroo they growl like a bear and carry nesting material in their monkey-like prehensile tail, making them an extraordinary and treasured species.

Despite their exceptional nature, the Rufous Bettong remains shrouded in obscurity due to its nocturnal habits, leaving many Australians unaware of their existence. Tragically, this remarkable species is facing imminent extinction due to the relentless impact of feral predators.

Aussie Ark has been breeding the species for six years in its Species Recovery Unit in the Barrington Tops facility. The program now boasts the world's most significant 'insurance population' safeguarding the species from extinction. Today's release is testimony of the program's success, and is only the second 'wild' release conducted by Aussie Ark.

Their new home in the Barrington Wildlife Sanctuary offers a utopia-like existence for the 20 animals; safe from habitat loss and predators, in a pristine environment reminiscent of pre-colonial times.

Managing Director Tim Faulkner directed the release, and was delighted to share the experience with many Aussie Ark supporters and their children.

"We love the Rufous Bettong and love creating this sort of positive future for the species," Faulkner enthused.

"Our commitment to the survival of this unique species is unwavering, and we invite you to join us in ensuring that the Rufous Bettong remains in the bush where they belong. Your support, in any form, is invaluable to our cause."

To learn more about the Rufous Bettong and how you can contribute to their conservation, donate now at aussieark.org.au.