Quokka: The little kangaroo that seems to smile

The quokka is probably one of the most photogenic animals in the world: a round face, small ears and naturally upturned mouth corners make it look as though it is always smiling. It is a miniature cousin of the kangaroo, about the size of a house cat. Let's meet this "smiling angel".

Its body

The quokka is a macropod — a marsupial — and its baby grows in its mother's pouch. It measures about 40 to 55 centimetres and is round and furry. Its "smile" comes from its natural facial shape, the corners of the mouth turning up, and its fearless nature has made it a famous "selfie celebrity".

Where it lives and what it eats

The quokka browses grasses, leaves and stems, and can go for long stretches without drinking, getting water from its food. It is mostly nocturnal, resting by day in shaded thickets. It lives in south-western Australia, especially on near-shore islands.

Where it is found

Quokkas live in south-western Australia and on islands such as Rottnest. Rottnest Island is named after the quokka: in 1696 a Dutch captain mistook the island's quokkas for giant rats and called the place "Rotte nest" — rat's nest. Threatened by foxes, feral cats and habitat loss, the quokka is listed as Vulnerable.

A note for grown-ups

If a child loves the quokka, remember one important rule: never touch or feed wildlife when taking a photo. Loving them means letting them live freely — and that is the gentlest way we can protect animals.