Australia's Selfie-Stars: Visiting the Smiling Quokkas - Meet the Quokkas: Rottnest Island's Happy Residents Thrive in Tourism Boom
Rottnest Island, a popular tourist spot near Perth, Australia, is home to the world's happiest animals, the quokkas. These small marsupials are thriving on the island, with visitors flocking to see them in their natural habitat.
Quokkas, known for their perpetual smile, are actually displaying a unique jaw structure. Currently, they are giving birth to their young, known as 'joeys', which can be seen peeking out of their mother's pouch. Despite their friendly demeanor, touching, feeding, or offering water to quokkas is prohibited, with fines up to 200 Australian dollars (110 euros) and potential removal from the island. The Rottnest Island Authority focuses on educating visitors about quokka conservation rather than deterrence. Most visitors follow guidelines, observing quokkas from a distance.
Quokkas have no natural predators on Rottnest Island, contributing to their tame behavior around humans. They are considered a threatened species, and tourism has helped raise awareness about their need for protection. The island is home to approximately 10,000 to 12,000 quokkas, with their population fluctuating seasonally and annually due to environmental conditions.
Rottnest Island is the prime location to spot quokkas, with a large and friendly population. While visitors are encouraged to enjoy their company, it's crucial to respect these unique creatures and their habitat.
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