What Is a Quokka? Fun Facts About the "World’s Happiest Animal"

If you’ve spent time online, you’ve probably seen pictures of a small, smiling animal posing for selfies with tourists. That adorable creature? It’s a quokka—a marsupial native to Australia and often called “The World’s Happiest Animal.”

Quokkas are about the size of a house cat, with round ears, short tails, and a naturally upturned mouth that makes them look like they’re always smiling. They’re herbivores, mostly nocturnal, and are primarily found on a small island off the coast of Western Australia called Rottnest Island.

Because of their friendliness and unique appearance, quokkas have become social media stars. But behind the cuteness, there are many facts to learn about their behavior, habitat, and survival instincts.

Why Can’t I Touch a Quokka?

While quokkas may look friendly and curious, you should never touch one.

Here’s why:

• Legal protection: Quokkas are a protected species under Australian law. Touching or feeding them can result in fines (up to several thousand dollars in some regions).

• Human health risks: Like any wild animal, quokkas can carry bacteria or diseases that could be harmful to humans.

• Animal safety: Human contact can stress quokkas and disrupt their natural behaviors.

If you’re lucky enough to see one in the wild (especially on Rottnest Island), it’s best to admire them from a distance and let them come to you—no touching!

Are Quokkas Only Found in Australia?

Yes! Quokkas are native to Australia and are found in very limited areas.

Their main habitats include:

• Rottnest Island, near Perth, Western Australia (the most famous quokka spot)

• Bald Island, also off the Western Australia coast

• Small pockets on the mainland in Western Australia, though these populations are much rarer

Their limited range is part of why they’re considered a vulnerable species, with conservation efforts in place to protect them.

Are Quokkas Friendly to Humans?

Quokkas aren’t domesticated, but they’ve become surprisingly tolerant of humans, especially on Rottnest Island where visitors are common.

People describe them as:

• Curious: They’ll often approach humans out of curiosity.

• Unfazed by cameras: That’s why you’ll see so many quokka selfies online!

• Opportunistic: Some may come close hoping for food (which you should never give them).

But remember: Being approachable doesn’t mean they want to be touched or handled. Always respect their space.

Quokka Fun Facts

Info and fun facts about Quokka:

• Nickname: Often called “The World’s Happiest Animal” because of their naturally upturned mouths that look like a smile.

• Size: About the size of a domestic cat.

• Diet: They’re herbivores and mostly eat grasses and leaves.

• Activity: Primarily nocturnal but often visible during the day on Rottnest Island.

• Selfies: Quokka selfies have become so popular that tourism on Rottnest Island skyrocketed after their photos went viral.

• Quokkas can survive on very little water: They get most of their hydration from the plants they eat, making them well-adapted to dry island environments.

• They store fat in their tails: Like some desert animals, quokkas store extra fat in their tails as an energy reserve for tough times.

• Feeding them human food is dangerous: Human snacks (even fruits like bananas) can upset their stomachs and make them sick. Local guides remind visitors: “Don’t feed the quokkas!”

• Conservation Status: Listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and introduced predators like foxes and cats.

Quokkas are proof that the natural world still holds surprises. Their smiles, survival instincts, and island lifestyle make them one of the most unique animals on the planet.

So next time you see a quokka selfie online, you’ll know there’s a lot more to these adorable creatures than just their cute faces!