The Worlds Happiest Animal

If you’re looking for an animal that combines cuteness with a perpetual grin, look no further than the quokka. These small marsupials, often dubbed “the world’s happiest animals”, have captured the hearts of people worldwide with their charming demeanor and cheerful expression. But there’s more to these delightful creatures than just their adorable looks.

Meet the Quokka

Native to Rottnest Island, quokkas are small, herbivorous marsupials belonging to the macropod family, which also includes kangaroos and wallabies. Their diet consists of a variety of plants including leaves, seeds and shrub buds.  Quokkas reach maturity at about two years of age and can live to about ten years of age, reaching around the size of a domestic cat. They are known for their round faces, large eyes, and soft, brown fur that gives them their signature cuddly appearance. These endearing traits, combined with their seemingly constant smile, have made them internet celebrities.

Habitat and Behaviour

Quokkas are primarily found on Rottnest Island off the coast of Western Australia however a small population is known to inhabit areas of Southern Western Australia. They prefer dense, low-lying vegetation, which provides both food and shelter. Rottnest Island is the perfect isolated habitat for quokkas without the presence of any natural predators, and with the lack of any swimming ability they won’t be inhabiting the mainland of Perth anytime soon.

Quokkas are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they seek refuge in the shade to avoid the harsh sun. At night, they emerge to forage for food, primarily eating leaves, grasses, and some fruits. Despite their small size, quokkas are quite resilient and adaptable, which helps them thrive in their unique environment.

During the spring months you may start to notice the little joeys poking their heads out of their mothers’ pouches as they prepare to enter the big wide world. In September, you can usually see them hoping around exploring, discovering their island home for the first time.

The Quokka Smile

One of the most distinctive features of quokkas is their seemingly perpetual smile. While this expression may be the result of their facial structure rather than a reflection of their mood, it has become an iconic symbol of happiness. The quokka’s cheerful appearance has made it a favorite subject for photos, particularly with tourists on Rottnest Island, where they are known to approach people with curiosity and a friendly demeanor.

Conservation and Protection

Quokkas have a special place in our hearts for several reasons. Their friendly behavior, coupled with their distinctive smile, has made them symbols of joy and positivity. Interacting with quokkas, whether through photographs or direct encounters, often leaves people with lasting memories and a sense of connection to nature. Always remember that quokkas are wild animals and should be treated as such by always maintaining a reasonable distance when interacting with the animals on the island. You should never touch or feed a quokka, always let them forage for their own food and find their own water sources.

Moreover, quokkas remind us of the importance of preserving our natural world. Their presence on Rottnest Island and other protected areas is a testament to the success of conservation efforts and the positive impact they can have on wildlife.

On your next visit to Rottnest Island take a moment to spot some quokkas in their natural habitat, take some time to reflect on what you’ve learnt about these amazing animals and make sure to always respect their boundaries and personal space.

If you’re aged 4-12 years old and are a WA resident you can join our Quokka Club to learn more about these little furry friends and receive FREE travel to Rottnest Island year-round. Click here to learn more.