Uluṟu’s mala population thriving | Parks Australia

Tuesday 4 August 2026

The population of endangered mala at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park has been estimated at nearly 500 animals following the 2026 count.

At just 30cm tall, mala, or rufous hare-wallaby, are one of the smallest species of macropod.

Mala (rufous hare-wallaby). — Mala (*Largochestes hirsutus*)

Parks staff collecting data during the Mala census

Parks staff doing the survey on a Mala. — Parks staff collecting data during the Mala census

UKTNP Senior Ranger, Lauren Macleod says the annual mala census provides an important opportunity for Aṉangu to interact with a significant species no longer found in the wild.

“Traditional Owners, Mala Rangers and other community members are integral in the success of the census, working with park staff, our vet from Taronga Conservation Society Australia and staff from the NT Department of Lands, Planning and Environment to prepare the traps, and to weigh, check and tag the mala,” she said.

“All the rain we had earlier this year promoted vegetation growth, so their body condition was very good, and we have seen a number of joeys on the cameras that are used for day-to-day surveillance in the paddock.

“With just 7 mala populations around the country, it means a lot to everyone involved to see them doing so well here.”

Members of Parks Australia’s Office of the Chief Remote Pilot are closely involved in ongoing monitoring of the mala.

The team have installed cameras to observe their behaviour, and are trialling use of thermal drones paired with AI as a less intrusive alternative to capture and release when counting. They are even testing a robot dog to patrol the fenceline for predators.