9 Fun Facts About Quokkas

Quokkas, known as 'kwoka' in Noongar, are undoubtedly Western Australia's cutest mascots.

The small, adorable, and ever-smiling marsupials lure many to Perth’s favourite island getaway, Rottnest Island/ Wadjemup, to glimpse them in their native habitats. Their approachable nature and happy demeanour are world-famous to photograph.

But before you reach for your camera, learn more about the world's happiest animal with these fun facts about quokkas.

1. Quokkas inspired the name ‘Rottnest Island’ 

Oh, how perceptions have changed! Quokkas weren't always deemed endearing creatures, with 17th-century Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh thinking otherwise. He named the island 'Rotte nest', which translates to 'Rat's Nest' as he believed the quokkas resembled giant rats.

2. Quokkas are not only found on Rottnest Island

While Rottnest Island is home to the world's largest quokka population, a small population can be found in Bald Island, Augusta, and King George Sound in Western Australia's southwest.

3. Quokkas are related to kangaroos

Quokkas are related to other native Aussie icons, kangaroos and wallabies. The furry hoppers are all members of the same marsupial family, the Macropodidae, and are endemic to Australia.

Like their much bigger relatives, quokkas move their bodies in a similar way with their smaller feet and shorter tails. They also have a pouch to carry baby quokkas, also called joeys. Cute!

4. Quokkas can climb trees!

While you may be more likely to see them hopping about on land, quokkas are great climbers – but only when craving a feed! Quokkas can climb up to two metres to snack on native leaves or flowers dangling on trees. But don't expect them to linger up high for too long – their tiny paws only permit them to hold on for short periods.

5. Quokkas follow an herbivorous diet

Quokkas love feasting on a green diet. While they sometimes climb trees for leaves, they mostly feed on fallen leaves, grasses, seeds, shrub buds, and the occasional berry.

6. Quokkas can fast for long periods 

Food and water are not always on the minds of quokkas. The little critters can go weeks without eating their favourite foods. Instead, they survive on fat stores in their tails, their reserve energy source. This helps them in seasons when their usual feed becomes scarce. Remarkably, they can endure months without drinking fresh water, with water sourced from the vegetation they consume. 

When visiting Rottnest Island, you may be tempted to feed them, especially when they surprise you at one of the many food outlets dotted around the island, but please refrain. It is illegal to feed quokkas as foreign food can be harmful to their diet. Let's help them stick to their healthy, clean eating ways.

7. Quokkas sleep with their heads down

Humans and quokkas position themselves quite differently when it comes to nap time. When quokkas want to catch a few Z's, they sometimes nap with their head bowed down, rested, at their feet. As nocturnal creatures, they primarily rest under shade throughout the day. The best times to see quokkas moving about are early mornings and late afternoons.

8. Quokka give birth in summer

Think adult quokkas are cute? Wait until you see a joey! Quokkas usually give birth towards the end of summer and carry their young in their small pouches up to September. Some females have been known to have birthed 17 joeys in their lifetime.

Quokkas reach maturity around age two and have a life expectancy of up to 10 years. Their adult size is comparable to that of a household cat.

9. Quokkas are friendly animals….but please don't touch them!

Quokkas may appear docile and friendly, but just remember, they are wild animals. While they may look cuddly, touching quokkas is a big no-no! Physical interaction can make them ill and spread disease. Unfamiliar odours from humans may even prompt mothers to abandon their young. 

To ensure their well-being, please keep a respectable distance, even when taking your #quokkaselfie with these photogenic creatures on Rottnest Island.

Read more: Rottnest: A Journey Around Perth’s Secluded Island Escape

To experience stunning landscapes, unique wildlife and a rich history, plan your next visit to Rottnest | Wadjemup here