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Science & Nature • Marsupials

Quokka

The quokka is a small marsupial native to southwestern Australia and is one of the smallest wallabies.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The quokka is a small marsupial native to southwestern Australia and is one of the smallest wallabies. It is best known for its apparent “smile,” which has made it popular in photos, but it is a wild herbivore and mainly nocturnal. The species is listed as Vulnerable rather than endangered.

Description

Quokkas are small wallaby-like marsupials with grey-brown fur and short ears. They are among the smallest members of the macropod group.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in southwestern Australia, especially on Rottnest Island and Bald Island. Smaller mainland populations also exist in parts of Western Australia.

Diet and behaviour

Quokkas are plant-eaters that browse on grasses, leaves, stems, bark, shrubs, and succulents. They are mainly nocturnal and feed in vegetated areas.

Conservation

Quokkas are listed as Vulnerable, with threats including habitat loss and introduced predators. Island populations are especially important for the species' survival.

Key facts

  • Quokkas are small marsupials and belong to the macropod family, which also includes kangaroos and wallabies.
  • They are native to southwestern Australia, with major populations on Rottnest Island and Bald Island.
  • Quokkas are herbivores that eat grasses, leaves, stems, bark, shrubs, and some succulents.
  • The species is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
  • Their “happy” expression comes from the shape of their face rather than their mood.

Frequently asked questions

What is a quokka?
A quokka is a small marsupial in the macropod family, related to kangaroos and wallabies.
Where do quokkas live?
They live in southwestern Australia, especially on Rottnest Island and Bald Island, with a few mainland populations.
Are quokkas endangered?
No. Quokkas are listed as Vulnerable, which means they face a risk of decline but are not currently classed as endangered.
Why are quokkas happy?
Their “happy” appearance comes from their facial structure, which makes them look like they are smiling.
Can you hold a quokka?
No. Quokkas are wild animals, and touching or holding them is discouraged or prohibited in protected areas.
What do quokkas eat?
They are herbivores that eat grasses, leaves, stems, bark, shrubs, and other plant material.

References

  1. National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/quokka
    Supports: Common name, scientific name, classification, diet, lifespan, size, and weight.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Perth Zoo — https://perthzoo.wa.gov.au/animal/quokka
    Supports: Description, size-related features, and diet including native grasses, leaves, stems, and bark.
  6. Australian Museum — https://www.australian.museum/learn/animals/mammals/quokka/
    Supports: Quokka as one of the smallest wallabies and browsing herbivore diet.