Rottnest Island is not only famous for its stunning beaches and rich history. Undoubtedly the quokka remains one of the biggest attractions for the island. These small, smiley marsupials have captured the hearts of visitors from around the world, earning the title of the “world’s happiest animal.” Their friendly nature and photogenic expressions make them a delight to encounter, whether they’re curiously exploring their surroundings or striking an adorable pose for a photo. Beyond their charming smiles, quokkas have fascinating behaviours and adaptations that allow them to thrive in their island habitat. Their playful personalities, combined with a strong connection to the natural environment, make them an essential part of the Rottnest experience. From where to find them to how to take the perfect quokka selfie, these beloved creatures continue to enchant locals and visitors alike.

What is a Quokka?

Quokkas are small, herbivorous marsupials that belong to the macropod family, which also includes kangaroos and wallabies. They are typically 40–54 cm in length and weigh around 2.5–5 kg, making them one of the smallest members of their family. Their round faces, short tails, and naturally upturned mouths give them their signature smiling appearance, making them irresistibly cute. These remarkable animals have adapted well to their environment and are capable of surviving long periods without drinking water. Instead, they absorb moisture from leaves, grass, and bark, which makes them highly resilient in the sometimes-harsh conditions of Rottnest Island. While they are mostly found on Rottnest, small populations also exist on the mainland in Western Australia. However, Rottnest Island remains the best place to see them up close in their natural habitat.

Why Are Quokkas So Famous?

Quokkas first gained international attention due to their friendly nature and iconic “smile.” Their cheerful appearance and curiosity around humans have made them a favourite subject for photos. The viral “quokka selfie” trend began when tourists discovered that these marsupials were not shy and often approached visitors, allowing for perfect close-up pictures. Social media has played a huge role in their popularity, with celebrities like Chris Hemsworth, Roger Federer, and Margot Robbie sharing their own quokka selfies, further boosting the animal’s fame. Today, thousands of visitors flock to Rottnest Island every year, hoping to capture their own picture with the world’s happiest animal.

Fun Facts About Quokkas

Quokkas are full of surprises! Unlike many other animals, they are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night and tend to rest in shaded areas during the day. Despite their small size, they are surprisingly agile and capable of jumping short distances, even climbing small trees when searching for food. One of the most fascinating aspects of quokkas is their unique parenting behaviour. Mother quokkas carry their babies, known as joeys, in their pouches for around six months. Once the joey outgrows the pouch, it continues to stay close to its mother for several more months, learning essential survival skills. Quokkas also have a long lifespan for such small creatures, living up to 10 years in the wild. Their diet consists mainly of leaves, grass, and bark, and although they might seem eager to nibble on human snacks, feeding them is strictly prohibited as it can make them sick.

Where to Find Quokkas on Rottnest Island

Quokkas can be found all over Rottnest Island, but there are a few key spots where visitors have the best chance of seeing them up close. Thomson Bay, near the main settlement, is one of the most popular places to find them, as many quokkas roam freely around this area. For those looking for a quieter and more scenic setting, The Basin and Parker Point Boardwalk are excellent spots where quokkas sometimes appear near walking trails and shady areas. Since quokkas avoid the heat of the day, the best way to find them is to look under trees, bushes, and other shaded areas, where they rest to stay cool.

How to Take the Perfect Quokka Selfie

Taking a quokka selfie is a must when visiting Rottnest Island, but it’s important to do so ethically and responsibly. To get the best shot, start by crouching or lying down, since quokkas are small, getting to their level helps frame the perfect angle. It’s important to let them come to you rather than chasing or luring them. Quokkas are naturally curious, and if you stay still, they may approach on their own. The best photos are taken in natural light, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is softer. Finally, always remember not to touch or feed them, these are wild animals, and respecting their space is essential to keeping them safe and healthy.

Responsible Wildlife Interaction

Quokkas are protected animals, and Rottnest Island has strict rules in place to ensure their safety. Touching, feeding, or disturbing them is illegal and can result in fines. While they may seem friendly and tame, they are still wild creatures and should be treated with respect. It’s also important to avoid using flash photography, as bright lights can stress the animals. Visitors should always follow Rottnest Island’s conservation guidelines, which aim to protect the quokka population for future generations. By interacting responsibly, travellers can help ensure that these adorable marsupials continue to thrive in their natural habitat.

Quokkas are one of Australia’s most beloved and unique animals and visiting Rottnest Island offers a rare opportunity to see them in the wild. Their cheerful expressions, curious personalities, and fascinating behaviours make them a highlight of any trip. For those planning a visit, remember to observe them respectfully, follow ethical photography practices, and enjoy the magic of seeing a quokka up close. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a returning visitor, meeting a quokka is an unforgettable experience! Have you taken a quokka selfie? Share your best shot with us and let us know about your Rottnest Island adventure!