You may not have heard of the quokka before, but you’ve probably seen photographs of these amusing critters circulating around the internet. They’re easily identified by their cheeky little grins, and it’s no surprise that they’re sometimes considered to as the World’s happiest wild creatures.
Quokkas are members of the same family as kangaroos (Macropodidae) and inhabit a few small Australian islands, such as Rottnest Island and Bald Island. They may live for up to 10 years and, like other Macropods, are herbivorous and primarily nocturnal. However, unlike most other wildlife, the quokka, which has a “vulnerable” conservation category, is not afraid of humans.
They don’t appear to be afraid of being photographed, and there was even a trend a few years ago where people took selfies with Quokkas. It may appear to be enjoyable, but anyone caught handling or feeding them faces a punishment of up to A$300. It’s probably best to leave them alone on their quokka island and instead enjoy the list prepared by this website. And, before you ask, no, Quokkas cannot be kept as pets!