This happy little guy is called a quokka. The quokka is a small marsupial about the size of a domestic cat. Like other marsupials in the macropod family (such as the kangaroos and wallabies), the quokka is herbivorous and mainly nocturnal. The quokka is very friendly and often approaches humans, maybe because they are too happy looking to be abused, they see everyone as friends... |
The quokka can be found on some smaller islands off the coast of Western Australia, in particular on Rottnest Island just off Perth and Bald Island near Albany. A small mainland colony exists in the protected area of Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, where they co-exist with Gilbert's potoroo. |
|
The quokka was one of the first Australian mammals seen by Europeans. The Dutch mariner Samuel Volckertzoon wrote of sighting "a wild cat" on Rottnest Island in 1658. In 1696, Willem de Vlamingh mistook them for giant rats and named the island "Rotte nest", which comes from the Dutch words rattennest meaning "rat nest". |
|
The quokka weighs 2.5 to 5 kilograms (5.5 to 11 lb) and is 40 to 90 centimeters (16 to 35 in) long with a 25 to 30 centimetres (9.8 to 12 in)-long tail, which is fairly short for a macropod. |
|
It has a stocky build, rounded ears, and a short, broad head. Although looking rather like a very small, dumpy kangaroo, it can climb small trees and shrubs. Its coarse fur is a grizzled brown color, fading to buff underneath. |
|
The quokka has no fear of humans and it is common for it to approach them closely, particularly on Rottnest Island. |
|
It is, however, illegal for members of the public on Rottnest Island to handle the animals in any way. An infringement notice carrying a A$300 fine can be issued by the Rottnest Island Authority for such behaviour. In addition, prosecution of the offense can result in a fine of up to $2,000. |
|
In the wild, its roaming is restricted to a very small range in the South-West of Western Australia, with a number of small scattered populations on the mainland, one large population on Rottnest Island and a smaller population on Bald Island near Albany. The islands are free of foxes and cats. On Rottnest, quokkas are common and occupy a variety of habitats ranging from semi-arid scrub to cultivated gardens. |
|
Although numerous on the small offshore islands, it has a very restricted range and is classified as vulnerable.On the mainland, where it is threatened by most introduced predatory species such as foxes, it requires dense ground cover for refuge. Clearfell logging and agricultural development has reduced this habitat, thus contributing to the decline of the species. The introduction of cats and dogs, as well as dingoes, has added to the problem, as has the clearing and burning of the remaining (swamp) lands. |
|
Have a good day everyone! |
Submitted by: Jackie D.
These Jaw-Dropping Photos Reveal the TRUE Scale of Things
When you see just how the size of a person compares to these massive natural wonders and human creations, you'll be utterly surprised!
The Land of Ice, Snow and Whimsical Nature in 19 Photos
Admire 19 picturesque photos of nature in one of the most whimsical and stunning place on the planet - Iceland.
The Colors of Nature Are Truly Spectacular
Sometimes, those that differ from the crowd shine the brightest, as these unique brightly-colored animals prove.
You Won't See Animals Like This Anywhere But The Internet
These animals were born with genetic mutations that make them stunning and rare wonders of nature.
Who Knew Yellowstone Had So Many Gorgeous Animals?
Yellowstone National Park is a wonderful place that has a large number of wild animals.
7 Gorgeous Dutch Parks We Recommend You Visit!
we have compiled a list of the top 7 national parks in Holland that should not be missed!
Behold 15 of Most Stunning Pigeons and Doves
We’ve compiled 15 of the most exquisite and graceful pigeons and doves in the world, both wild and human-bred, for you to discover and delight in.
14 Mistakes Every Pet Owner Makes
If you love your pet, you must recognize the 14 mistakes you may be making that are harmful to its well-being, security, and mental state.
The World Is Full of Beauty, but These Rivers Top It All
These are 15 of the world's most spectacular rivers. Their beauty will mesmerize you!
Your Ultimate Guide to All Breeds of Cat!
From Balinese to a Scottish Fold - there are many breeds of cats, and you'll find them all here!
19 Gorgeous Birds You Might Not Have Seen Before
Birds are one of the most varied and beautiful species. These 19 exotic birds are absolutely beautiful!
Weird Science: 12 Phenomena That Scientists Can’t Explain
Scientists think they're got the world covered but so many mysteries remain. Here are 12 bizarre phenomena that even scientists can't explain.
Is There a More Beautiful Creature Than the Proud Peacock?
Some may argue that the peacock is the most beautiful bird in the world. The colors of the peacock is where nature truly shines...
This Collection of Dog Facts Will Definitely Surprise You
If you think you know a lot about dogs, think again. These 16 surprising facts will open your eyes and give you insight into our best friend's world.
Stunning Dogs in Their Natural Environments
These photos capture dogs amid Austrian wilderness. And the results are truly magical, capturing some enchanting portraits. Take a look for yourself.
INTERACTIVE: Click on the Flower to See Its Full Beauty
These interactive photos of flowers will allow you to see them in video with a click.
The Colors of Nature Are Truly Spectacular
Sometimes, those that differ from the crowd shine the brightest, as these unique brightly-colored animals prove.
A Photo Guide to Beautiful Birds of Prey
A comprehensive photo-guide of common and rare birds of prey.
Feast Your Eyes: 50 Stunning Sceneries From 50 US States!
The US is full of magnificent places, in each and every state...
Nature's Engineering Marvel: World's Largest Beaver Dam
A Canadian beaver family has built a dam that can be seen from space! But how is that possible?
These Pictures Can Reduce Your Stress. We Guarantee It!
Enjoy the beauty of our world in 15 glorious photographs.
Birds of Paradise: The Pinnacle of Avian Beauty
Birds of paradise are really a sight to behold if you've never seen them before. In this next post, we present you 14 of the most stunning species of all.
Beautiful Nature: The Tadpole Migration
This is the story of one of the greatest migrations, while also being one of the tiniest ones...
Brighten Up Your Garden with These 7 Beautiful Flowers
Brighten up your garden by adding some of the best and brightest flowers around!
A Flower Timelapse That Will Brighten Up Your Day
In Bloom: A stunning video evolution of flowers opening
The Land of Ice, Snow and Whimsical Nature in 19 Photos
Admire 19 picturesque photos of nature in one of the most whimsical and stunning place on the planet - Iceland.
15 of the Most Beautiful Birds in Brazil's Atlantic Forest
Here is a collection of pictures of some gorgeous and colorful birds from the Atlantic Forest in Brazil.
Think You know the Grand Canyon? Check Out These 12 Facts
It’s one of the natural wonders of the world, and for good reason. Take a look at these 12 facts about the Grand Canyon you might have missed.
Is it a Raccoon? Is it a Dog? No. It’s a 'Raccoon Dog'!
Tanuki, or the Japanese raccoon dog, is a unique species. Its neither a dog, nor a raccoon. So what is it?
Inside a Red Fox's Den, You Will Find... Cute Baby Foxes!
Watch a family of fox babies grow from cuddly grey balls of fur into playful little pups. We must say, it's one of the cutest things we ever did see!
This Fish’s Bite is Faster Than Your Blink
This is probably the weirdest fish you will ever see.
Capturing Africa's Wild Beauty: 17 Mesmerizing Pics
Enjoy this photographic journey of African wildlife.
16 Photos That Showcase Our Planet’s Breathtaking Beauty
Check out these unbelievably picturesque photos from around the world.
19 Flower Species that Celebrate the Summertime with Beauty
Summertime in the northern hemisphere is decorated by some of the most beautiful flowers you've seen.
From Alabama to Wyoming: 50 States Blessed with Fall Colors
Before the winter months take over, let's enjoy the beauty of fall in 50 U.S. states.
15 Times Birds Built Nests in the Most UNUSUAL Places
Some birds build their nests in the most unusual places, such as a mop, a helmet, and even a bag.
Do Our Cats Love Us? A Fascinating Experiment
This cat owner decided to put his 2 cats to a test usually prescribed to toddlers.
This Woman Takes Incredible Wildlife Pics With Hidden Cams
A woman has set up a secret camera in her backyard bird feeder and ends up capturing the most interesting wildlife photos.
Nature's Wonders: 14 Fascinating and Gorgeous Plants
These are some of the most interesting plants we have seen in a while.
Transparent Animals Are Rare but They Really Do Exist
To preserve individual species, nature uses some wonderful tricks - like invisibility! Here are a collection of see-through creatures.
20 Jaw-Dropping Natural Landscapes That Grip Your Soul
It's impossible to put words to these glorious pictures. We just can't.
Nature inFocus Photography Awards: 17 Incredible Winners
Check out the incredible winners of the 2023 Nature inFocus Photography Awards.
The Worst Earthquakes in History - a Nightmare Turned Real
On this list, we feature 9 of the most devastating and deadly earthquakes in history - in rising order according to the Richter scale.
6 Animal Mysteries That Are Puzzling Scientists
As much as humans like to think they know everything, these animal-related mysteries are perplexing even to scientists.
Why is Your Cat Constantly Checking Up on You?
Ever wonder why your feline friend seems to follow you around the house, peeking into rooms you're in?
WOW! How Can These Places Be Real? (18 Pics)
Enjoy this breathtaking collection of pictures of the most beautiful places on our planet.
Nature's Marvel: The Fascinating Biology of Seahorses
The seahorse is one of the most unique creatures of our planet. Let’s find out some interesting facts about its insane biology.