The Quokka is a small marsupial native to Western Australia, particularly found on Rottnest Island, Bald Island, and some areas of the mainland.
Quokkas inhabit a variety of habitats, including coastal heathlands, swamps, and forests. They are primarily found in dense vegetation, but they can also venture into more open areas.
Quokkas are endemic to Western Australia. While they were once more widespread on the mainland, their range has significantly diminished, and they are now mostly confined to small pockets.
Quokkas are known for their friendly and curious behaviour, which has earned them the reputation of being the “happiest animal on Earth” due to their seemingly smiling facial expression. They are primarily nocturnal but can be active during the day, especially in areas with less human disturbance.
Quokkas are herbivorous and mainly feed on grasses, leaves, and stems. They are also known to eat bark, fruits, and seeds when available. Quokkas have unique adaptations that allow them to extract moisture from the vegetation they consume, enabling them to survive in arid environments.
Quokkas are currently listed as a “vulnerable” species under Western Australian legislation. Their population is declining due to habitat loss, predation by introduced species such as cats, dogs and foxes, and competition for resources with other herbivores.
Rottnest Island, located off the coast of Western Australia, is one of the best places to observe quokkas in the wild. The island is home to a large population of quokkas, estimated to be around 10,000. The absence of predators on the island has allowed the quokka population to thrive.
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