Photo: May Wong · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The quokka is a small wallaby found almost exclusively on a handful of islands off Western Australia, widely nicknamed 'the world's happiest animal' for its permanent smile-like expression.
Appearance
It has a compact, round body covered in coarse brown-gray fur, small rounded ears, and a short thick tail.
Habitat & Distribution
The quokka is found in forest, grassland habitats.
Diet & Behavior
Diet: Herbivore — Plant-eating animals that graze or browse on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation, from tiny insects to giant elephants.
Quokkas are mostly nocturnal, live in small social groups, and — having evolved with few natural predators — show little fear of humans on protected islands.
Predators
- Fox
- Cat (introduced predators)
Prey
This species does not prey on other animals.
Interesting Facts
- 1
Quokkas are often called the 'world's happiest animal' due to their upturned mouth.
- 2
They can climb small trees and shrubs to reach food.
- 3
Rottnest Island, named after them by Dutch explorers who mistook them for giant rats, is their best-known stronghold.
Gallery
Quokka FAQs
What does a quokka eat?
The quokka is a herbivore. Plant-eating animals that graze or browse on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation, from tiny insects to giant elephants.
Where does the quokka live?
The quokka is found in forest, grassland habitats across australia.
Is the quokka endangered?
The quokka has a conservation status of Vulnerable. Species facing a high risk of extinction in the wild due to habitat loss, hunting, or other pressures.
How long do quokkas live?
A quokka's typical lifespan is 10–13 years in the wild.
How much does a quokka weigh?
An adult quokka typically weighs 2.5–5 kg.