Like most tree-kangaroos (genus Dendrolagus), it lives in the treetops and feeds on leaves or other plant matter.

It belongs to the macropod family (Macropodidae) along with kangaroos, and carries its young in a pouch like other marsupials.

Unlike its land dwelling cousins, its legs are not disproportionately large in comparison to the forelimbs, which are strong and end in hooked claws for grasping tree limbs, and it has a long tail for balance.

[10] Goodfellow's tree-kangaroos are slow and clumsy on the ground, moving at about walking pace and hopping awkwardly, leaning their bodies far forward to balance the heavy tail.

[10] Although they feed mainly on the leaves of the silkwood tree[11] (Flindersia pimenteliana), other food is eaten when available, including various fruits, cereals, flowers and grasses.