Spectacled hare-wallaby

The spectacled hare-wallaby, a distinctive species of macropod, is native to Australia and New Guinea. In Australia, a small sub-population exists on Barrow Island, while the mainland population spans the northern regions, although it is currently in decline. This nocturnal and solitary herbivore flourishes in tropical tussock or spinifex habitats from Queensland to Western Australia. It is recognized for its grey-brown fur with golden tips and the characteristic orange ring around its eyes that gives it the "spectacled" moniker.

First described by John Gould in 1842 and named Lagorchestes conspicillatus, the spectacled hare-wallaby belongs to the Macropodidae family. Despite being larger than some of its relatives, it faces significant threats. Predation by introduced species and habitat destruction due to land clearing are major concerns, contributing to its declining numbers. The subspecies on Barrow Island, L. conspicillatus conspicillatus, is particularly vulnerable due to these threats, while the mainland subspecies, L. conspicillatus leichardti, was once near-threatened. Efforts are ongoing to reintroduce the species to some of its former habitats, particularly in the more arid regions where it has vanished.

In 2008, the spectacled hare-wallaby was reviewed on the Red List and classified as least concern, although it continues to face conservation challenges. Interestingly, a fossil of this species, dating back to the early Holocene period (up to 11,000 years ago), was discovered in Queensland, offering a glimpse into its long history. Despite its current struggles, the spectacled hare-wallaby remains a fascinating and vital part of Australia's natural heritage.