Quokka Facts
for Kids

Quokkas appear to smile because of the shape of their jaw and facial muscles — the corners of their mouth curve upward in a way that resembles a human grin. This is not an expression of emotion but a fixed anatomical feature. On Rottnest Island, quokkas approach humans without fear (having had no land predators for generations), which adds to the impression of warmth.

Quokkas are classified as Vulnerable. On Rottnest Island, where introduced predators are absent, populations are stable at roughly 10,000 individuals. On the mainland and other smaller islands, numbers have declined dramatically due to predation by foxes and feral cats, habitat clearing, and drought. Total population is estimated at 7,500–15,000.

Quokkas live only in southwestern Australia — one of the smallest global ranges of any macropod. The largest population lives on Rottnest Island, 18 km off the coast of Perth. Smaller populations exist at Bald Island and in fragmented mainland areas in the Southwest Corner of Western Australia.

Touching or feeding quokkas on Rottnest Island is illegal and carries significant fines. While quokkas will often approach close enough for a selfie, human food can cause serious digestive problems and malnutrition. Touching can also stress them and transmit pathogens in both directions.

Yes — quokkas are macropods (family Macropodidae), the same family as kangaroos and wallabies. They are most closely related to pademelons and rock wallabies. Like kangaroos, they are marsupials with a pouch for raising young, strong rear legs, and a hopping gait. Quokkas are much smaller — about the size of a domestic cat.