Quokka
The quokka is a small marsupial native to southwestern Australia and is one of the smallest wallabies.
The quokka is a small marsupial native to southwestern Australia. It is best known for its apparent smile, but it is a wild herbivore and mainly nocturnal.
What it is
The quokka is a small wallaby-like marsupial belonging to the macropod family, which also includes kangaroos and wallabies. It has grey-brown fur and short ears, making it one of the smallest members of the group.
Why it matters
Quokkas are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, facing threats from habitat loss and introduced predators. Island populations on Rottnest and Bald Island are especially important for the species' survival.
Key details
Quokkas are herbivores that eat grasses, leaves, stems, bark, shrubs, and succulents. They are mainly nocturnal and feed in vegetated areas. Their “happy” expression comes from the shape of their face rather than their mood.
In short
- Small marsupial in the macropod family
- Native to southwestern Australia, mainly on Rottnest and Bald Islands
- Herbivore that eats grasses and plants
- Listed as Vulnerable, not endangered
Quick questions
What is a quokka?
Where do quokkas live?
Why are quokkas happy?
Sources
- National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/quokkaSupports: Common name, scientific name, classification, diet, lifespan, size, and weight.
- WWF Australia — https://wwf.org.au/blogs/8-interesting-facts-about-quokkas/Supports: Native range, major populations, herbivorous diet, nocturnal behaviour, threats, and guidance not to touch or feed quokkas.
- PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/quokka-fact-sheet/Supports: Quokka as a small marsupial, herbivorous diet, distribution on Rottnest and Bald Island, and Vulnerable conservation status.
- The Nature Conservancy Australia — https://www.natureaustralia.org.au/what-we-do/our-priorities/wildlife/wildlife-stories/meet-the-quokka/Supports: Population presence on Rottnest Island and herbivorous feeding on grasses and shrubs.
- Perth Zoo — https://perthzoo.wa.gov.au/animal/quokkaSupports: Description, size-related features, and diet including native grasses, leaves, stems, and bark.
- Australian Museum — https://www.australian.museum/learn/animals/mammals/quokka/Supports: Quokka as one of the smallest wallabies and browsing herbivore diet.