Why is this animal unusual?
It has almost no fear of people. On its island home there are no predators, so it will hop right up to you – which is exactly how the selfies happen.
Why does it look like that?
A stocky body the size of a cat, short round ears, a rat-like tail and a mouth that curves upward at the corners.
Strangest biological feature
A fat tank in its tail. It stores fat there for hard times and can go a long while without drinking.
Why is it strange?
The cute story may have a darker side. Mothers chased by a predator have been reported to drop their joey from the pouch, which could distract the hunter while she escapes – though how often this really happens is debated.
Interesting behavioral facts
Quokkas are mostly active at night, sleep in the shade by day – and can climb small trees to reach leaves.
Records held
A Dutch explorer who landed on its island in 1696 thought the quokkas were giant rats, and named the place “Rats’ Nest”. It’s still called Rottnest today.
