Meet the Quokka

If you’ve ever scrolled through travel photos from Australia, chances are you’ve seen one of the internet’s most beloved animals — the quokka.

The Quokka is a small marsupial found primarily on Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth. Thanks to the natural shape of its mouth and facial features, the quokka appears to be constantly smiling — giving it a reputation as “the happiest animal in the world.”

And yes, it genuinely looks like it’s ready for a selfie at any moment.

A Global Travel Icon

Over the years, quokkas have become a bucket-list encounter for travelers. Visitors fly from around the world to Rottnest Island hoping to capture that famous “quokka selfie.” Their relaxed body language and curious personalities make them unusually comfortable around humans — at least compared to most wild animals.

But their charm isn’t just about looks.

Quokkas are known for their gentle behavior. They’re herbivores, mostly active at night, and spend their days resting in shaded areas. Their calm, approachable presence has helped turn Rottnest Island into a globally recognized wildlife destination.

The Reality Behind the Smile

Despite their joyful appearance, quokkas face serious challenges.

They are officially listed as vulnerable due to:

• Habitat loss
• Predation from introduced species such as foxes and feral cats
• Environmental pressures including climate change
• Limited geographic distribution

While Rottnest Island provides a relatively protected environment, mainland populations have declined significantly over time. Their survival depends heavily on conservation efforts, habitat management, and predator control programs.