Known as the 'world's happiest animal,' Quokkas are naturally unafraid of humans and will happily approach anyone that comes near.
Tragically, the friendliness of the Australian marsupial may be coming to an end.
Six quokkas have been killed “deliberately and maliciously” on Rottnest Island, located off Western Australia. Five quokkas were found stuffed head-first into tree protectors and another quokka was found lying dead nearby.
Quokkas were listed as a vulnerable species after mainland populations were almost wiped out after European settlement. The largest remaining population is on Rottnest Island where they have become comfortable with humans.
Sadly, this may have contributed to the cruel deaths of the six quokkas.
A representative of the Rottnest Island Authority said they had previously never heard of quokkas being “deliberately and maliciously” killed.
We ask that a full investigation into the deaths of the six quokkas is carried out and that the perpetrators are prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
We also ask for stronger protection for quokkas on Rottnest island and that visitors are educated on how to interact with the species.
Please sign and share the petition.
