The Quokka is a Western Australian icon, a delightful marsupial that has captured hearts across the globe. You might have heard of these endearing creatures, but let's dig into what they are, where you can find them, and why they're so well-known.
What are quokkas?
Quokkas (scientifically known as setonix brachyurus) are charming marsupials, closely related to other native Aussie icons, the kangaroo and the wallaby. Like them, they have a pouch to carry baby quokkas. They are the only mammal native to Rottnest Island (Rotto), with around 10,000 of them happily hopping around the island today!
Only 100 people live on Rottnest, but it attracts over 500,000 visitors each year. The quokkas have become very accustomed to humans, and they have plenty of resources and no natural predators. Plus, with rules in place to protect them, Rotto is an ideal home for these cuddly creatures.
Where to find them
The best place to encounter quokkas is on Rottnest Island, Perth's beloved getaway spot affectively known as "Rotto" by the locals. A short ferry ride from Fremantle Port whisks you away to the island paradise in only 25 minutes. When Dutch explorers first stumbled upon the island in the 17th century, they mistook these furry friends for giant rats, which is how the island got its quirky name, "Rotte Nest," which means "Rat's Nest" in Dutch. Of course, they soon found out the quokkas are far from oversized rodents, but the name stuck.
However, the island and the quokkas were discovered long before this, by the traditional owners of the land, the Whadjuk Noongar people. They call the island "Wadjemup," which means "place across the water where the spirits are." The name "Quokka" itself comes from the Noongar word, "Kwoka."
The quokka's rise to fame
These curious and cheerful beings are recognised around the world, and they have become an icon of Western Australia. Their sweet smiles have earned them the title of the "world's happiest animal." Their adorable grins are often showcased in viral "quokka selfies" - we've all seen THAT Chris Hemsworth selfie and we definitely want our own! Tennis superstar Roger Federer starred in a government advertising campaign for the island, and he also has a famous quokka selfie, with the WA Government claiming it has been seen by 581 million people, or one in seven of the world's internet users.
But perhaps the most famous quokka selfie of all, was the one shared by Lisa from K-pop band, BLACKPINK. In 2023, she posted a poll to her 95 million Instagram followers asking if she should make the journey to Rotto to meet a quokka in person, which of course received an overwhelming 'yes' response. Lisa posted the selfie with the caption "Such a long trip to go see you in person bro."
These aren't the only viral celebrity quokka selfies, others include the likes of Margot Robbie, Sam Kerr, and Shawn Mendes. As you can imagine, these also helped skyrocket the quokka's fame and further cement their status as a Western Australian icon.
Quokka selfies - snap safely
While quokkas are undeniably cute, remember they are still wild animals, and it's important to take precautions not only for your own safety but for theirs too. You are visiting them in their home, and there are rules in place to ensure they are protected from harm. Here's how to interact with them responsibly:
- Respect their space: observe from a safe distance. Touching quokkas is not only discouraged but can also result in a $300 fine.
- No feeding: human food is harmful to quokkas. Let them forage for their own food.
- Stay on the paths: stick to the designated areas to protect their habitat.
- Join a guided tour: Rottnest Island offers free guided quokka tours, providing a great opportunity to see these creatures up close while learning more about them. Head to the Rottnest Volunteer Guides Information Booth on the island for more information.
When and where to see them
Quokkas can be spotted all over the island, but the best place to see them is near the main settlement, particularly around the grassed areas. Quokkas are nocturnal animals, and you'll often see them napping under the shade of the trees.
Although the island is busiest during the warmer months with people visiting for swimming, snorkelling, and bike-riding, the best time for quokka spotting is actually when it is cooler. With fewer crowds, you're more likely to encounter these adorable creatures, and you'll have the chance to experience a different side of the island, cozying up by a fire and enjoying a unique, tranquil visit.
Fun facts about quokkas
- Quokkas can climb trees! But only when they're hungry. They can climb up to two metres to nibble on native leaves or flowers dangling on trees.
- They are nocturnal and sleep for most of the day, napping in shaded areas to stay cool.
- They are herbivores and live off a diet of native plants, leaves, and seeds that they forage on the island.
- Their smile is what has earned them their reputation as the happiest animal in the world. But despite their friendly grin, they aren't expressing joy - they are actually panting to cool off in the Australian heat!
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