Besides the beaches, bays, and laid-back island lifestyle, the other big drawcard that brings people to Rottnest Island is the island’s natural inhabitants, the quokkas. These famous little creatures aren’t found anywhere else in the world. Unique to Western Australia, Rottnest Island is lucky to have their largest population, which is part of what makes them so special.
But there’s more to our resident quokkas than initially meets the eye. So the next time you’re planning to visit Rottnest Island, we’re going to help you out with a little homework, and have prepared all the information you need to know about quokkas.
What are quokkas?
Quokkas are a type of marsupial, more specifically a small type of wallaby. Like kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and other animals in this same family, quokkas carry their young in their pouches. They are herbivores, feasting on native plants, leaves, and seeds that they forage on the island. However, unlike kangaroos and wallabies, quokkas are able to climb trees. And while you won’t see it often, it’s definitely quite a sight when you do.
Throughout the day, you will usually find quokkas spending their time lounging around in the shade or under bushes and trees. This is because they are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are mostly active at night. You’re much more likely to see them out and about at dusk, during the night, and in the early morning.
How did quokkas get their name?
The name ‘quokka’ is derived from the Noongar name, ‘kwoka’. This is in contrast to what the first Dutch explorers in 1658 called them. As the first European voyagers to see quokkas, they believed that they were a species of giant rat . This is what led them to name the island Rottnest, which is Dutch for ‘rat’s nest’.
Where is the best place to see quokkas?
While there are thousands of quokkas that roam across Rottnest Island, the best place to run into them is near the main settlement. They are particularly fond of hanging out in one of the many grassy areas. One part of the settlement that is usually full of quokkas is Colebatch Avenue, the footpath that leads up to Hotel Rottnest. This is a perfect spot to spend an afternoon enjoying a relaxing meal and drink while you watch these little residents make their way around the pub without a care in the world.
You’ll also see them outside the settlement, all across the island in their natural habitat. But if you do see them, please do not chase them or try to follow them to the bushes. It’s best to let them come to you to ensure they don’t feel scared or threatened.
The best time of year to see quokkas
The best time of the year to spot quokkas is during the cooler months of the year. This is because there are fewer crowds on the island, making the quokkas more prevalent. Additionally, quokkas give birth in late summer and keep their joeys in their pouches until August and September when they can start taking their first hopping steps. Getting to see quokkas roaming around with their children in tow makes it an extra special experience.
Visiting Rottnest in winter gives you a unique experience with the island. Rather than enduring the hot sun and the big crowds, you get the opportunity to warm up in front of the fire and enjoy a more subdued view of your natural surroundings.
Are quokkas really the world’s happiest animal?
While quokkas have mainly been labelled the happiest animal due to the shape of their face that looks like they’re smiling, there may be some truth to this. They live on a temperate island with no natural predators and they get constant entertainment in the form of excited tourists. While it’s hard to comment conclusively about which animals are actually the happiest, quokkas certainly have a lot of reasons to be.
How to safely interact with quokkas on Rottnest Island
While quokkas are fairly used to seeing tourists, they’re still a vulnerable species. It’s crucial that we protect them in order to ensure that they don’t become endangered. There are a few easy ways to make sure you’re enjoying the company of quokkas safely.
Don’t touch the quokkas
One of the first things you need to learn about Rottnest Island’s quokkas is that you should not touch them. Touching them has the potential to transfer human-borne diseases, which can make them sick and spread to the rest of the quokka population. It may also impart your scent onto them, which could make other quokkas avoid them. This is particularly damaging in the case of a parent.
To avoid all of these potential issues, it’s best to simply observe the quokkas from a safe distance of a couple of metres. If a quokka does approach you, it’s best to simply stay still, watch it, and enjoy the experience.
Don’t feed the quokkas
It’s illegal to feed quokkas, since human food has the potential to make them sick. They get all of the nutrition from the plants in the area that they forage for themselves. Quokkas are naturally curious creatures, so you’ll come to you in their own time without you needing to offer them any food.
Be respectful
It’s important to remember that when you’re stepping foot on Rottnest Island, you’re entering the territory of the quokkas. That’s why it’s important you remain respectful to them while you’re there. This means not chasing them, not interfering with their natural habitat, and not trying to scare them away when you see them. The best thing you can do is simply give them their space and let them enjoy their home.
You can find quokkas right on your doorstep
Samphire Rottnest is located right in the heart of the settlement, meaning we regularly get quokkas visiting our doorstep. In particular, you can expect to cross paths with a lot of quokkas along McCallum Avenue and Parker Point Road.
So if you’re keen to do some quokka spotting, book a room at Samphire Rottnest. When you’re here, simply speak with our friendly front desk staff and they’ll advise you of their favourite places to see quokkas away from the crowds.
