Wallaby Joeys Hop Into New Habitat At San Diego Zoo Safari Park

ESCONDIDO, CA – Three wallaby joeys have settled into their grassy habitat at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park's Walkabout Australia, the zoo announced Tuesday.

Also see: Walkabout Australia Opens At San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The joeys – named Laura, Thelma and Tatum – had been commuting between Walkabout Australia, the Safari Park's newest exhibit, and their previous home at the zoo's Ione and Paul Harter Animal Care Center while staff slowly introduced them to their new habitat. The three female red-necked wallabies were hand-raised by staff.

"Laura, the largest of the three, tends to be the most independent and adventuresome," said Safari Park keeper Bree Barney. "Tatum, the smallest, is typically the most affectionate, and likes to stay close to keepers or in her pouch while Thelma is an excellent companion to both girls, but seems to share a special bond with Tatum."

Zoo staff continue to bottle-feed the trio but staff expect them to be weaned by the end of October. The joeys are only about 20 inches tall and between nine and 13 pounds each. Adult wallabies can grow up to 3 feet and weigh between 26 and 35 pounds, according to the zoo.

The Safari Park's Walkabout Australia allows guests to interact with species native to Australia such as wallabies, kangaroos and various birds.

Wallabies are related to kangaroos and are found primarily in Australia and on nearby islands. Red-necked wallabies are categorized under "least concern" of extinction.

By City News Service; Kristina Houck/Patch contributed to this report.

Photo credit: Photos taken on Sept. 4, 2018 by Ken Bohn, San Diego Zoo Global