Like kangaroos, they like to move about by hopping on their hind legs, and they protect their young in a pouch on their bellies.
They weigh up to 5kg (roughly 11lbs) and can reach as long as 54cm (21in) long — so they’re not as tiny as they might appear in pictures.
They mostly eat plants and love to nibble on grass and leaves. If you’re ever in the area, your best chance to see one is at night or in the early morning as quokkas are nocturnal.
But don’t get too close or let that cuddly face fool you — they have some sharp rear claws and teeth. A kick or bite could cause painful injuries.
Despite their vulnerable status, quokkas live for about 10 years and have lots of offspring. So with a little protection from the humans they share their homes with, they should be around for generations to come!
|