The wallaby's large thick tail serves several purposes. Without it, a wallaby wouldn't be able to stand up, hop or move at slow speeds. It is also where a wallaby stores excess fat for use in times of hardship. When a wallaby stands, its tail acts as the third point of a tripod and prevents it from toppling over backwards. The tail also serves a similar purpose when a wallaby springs up from a standstill position. While hopping, the tail acts are a counterbalance to its body, preventing the wallaby from tipping forward. At slow speeds, the tail is a vital part of its pentapedaling movement. The wallaby also stands up on its tail when it is fighting.