Native to Australia, the quokka is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with its population drastically decreasing due to habitat loss and the introduction of invasive species.
Specifically, the quokka population, which numbered around 1 million in the early 20th century, has dwindled to only 10,000 to 12,000 individuals and continues to decline.
To protect the quokka, the Australian government has designated Rottnest Island as a protected area, legally restricting the touching or abuse of quokkas and actively managing their population.
The Nature Conservancy Australia, photo by Sam West
Are you familiar with this adorable animal? It's already famous as the 'happiest animal in the world,' so you might recognize it. It's the quokka, found in Australia. The quokka is known for being a species that can incur a fine just for touching it. Why is touching a quokka punishable by a fine? It's because quokkas are an endangered species.
IUCN
The quokka is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Species classified as vulnerable are considered to be at high risk of extinction within a few months or years. Currently, quokkas inhabit the western region of Australia, with an estimated population of 10,000 to 12,000. In the early 20th century, there were about 1 million quokkas, but in just 100 years, the population has decreased to one-hundredth of its original size. According to the IUCN, the quokka population is still declining.
What are the reasons behind this rapid decline in the quokka population? Quokkas primarily live in forests and wetlands, but human development has significantly reduced their habitable areas. With the shrinking habitat, the quokka population naturally decreases. Moreover, the introduction of invasive species like the red fox, dingo, and European rabbit has led to a considerable decrease in their numbers. In addition, the areas where quokkas reside have become drier due to climate change, which is another factor contributing to their endangered status.
Tourism Australia, photo by James Fisher
The quokka is also the mascot of Rottnest Island in Australia. It seems that the quokka's unique adorable smile played a significant role in its designation as the mascot. To protect this endearing smile, the Australian government is taking various measures.
First, Rottnest Island, where quokkas reside, has been designated as a quokka conservation area. In 2013, they announced a quokka recovery plan to manage and monitor the quokka population. As mentioned earlier, touching quokkas is legally restricted.
However, despite these legal regulations, an incident of quokka abuse occurred in 2015. Two French tourists who visited Australia set fire to a quokka, causing burns. The Australian government imposed a fine of $4,000 on them.
Tourism Australia website capture, https://www.australia.com/en/things-to-do/wildlife/how-to-get-the-perfect-quokka-photo.html
Tourism Australia's official website introduces six ways to take photos with quokkas without touching them. These include targeting times when quokkas are eating leaves, the early evening, or waiting patiently with wide-open eyes. However, it's crucial to always remember that quokkas are an endangered species and require protection. If you encounter a quokka, always keep in mind that they are a protected species and be cautious. Please remember this and always act with care.