Meet a Quokka at Sydney Zoo
An Unforgettable Sydney Experience
What is a Quokka?
Quokkas (Setonix brachyurus) are small marsupials native to Australia, specifically the southwestern region. They belong to the macropod family, which includes kangaroos and wallabies. Quokkas are about the size of a domestic cat, weighing between 2.5 to 5.0 kg (5.5 to 11 lbs) and measuring 40 to 54 cm (16 to 21 inches) in length.
Unique Features of Quokkas
Quokkas are herbivores, feeding on a variety of plants, including grasses and leaves. They are mostly nocturnal, foraging at night and resting during the day. Furthermore, quokkas can climb small trees to reach food and have a unique way of chewing that resembles giraffes.
- Habitat: Native to Rottnest Island, quokkas are nocturnal and can climb, hop long distances, and store fat in their tails for energy.
- Hydration: They primarily get their water from their leafy diet, rarely needing to drink.
Conservation Status
Quokkas are classified as a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species like foxes and cats. Conservation efforts are in place, especially on Rottnest Island, where they are protected from many threats.
Encounter Experience
Quokkas are now residents at Sydney Zoo, marking the first time these adorable marsupials have been housed there. Known for their cheerful expressions, quokkas are often referred to as “the happiest animals on Earth.”
Visitors can participate in a Quokka Encounter:
- Age Requirement: Participants must be 8 years or older.
- Group Size: Each session accommodates a maximum of 3 participants.
- Activities: Guests can hand-feed quokkas and take photos with them.
- Session Times: Encounters are held twice daily during summer at 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM.
Quokkas New Home: Sydney Zoo
“These quokkas have already stolen our hearts,” says Kelly Davis, Sydney Zoo’s Animal Care Manager. “Their playful nature and unique behaviours make them fascinating to care for, and we can’t wait for guests to experience their charm up close.”
For a memorable experience, visitors are encouraged to book encounters early due to limited availability.
Important Information from Sydney Zoo
- Encounter booking does not include zoo entry. A member return booking or online day ticket is required.
- Minimum age of 8. All children must be comfortable in the presence of animals.
- Quokka encounters are held twice per day in the summer period at 9:30am and 11:30am for a maximum group size of 3 participants per session.
- Each participant up to 16 years must be accompanied by a paid participating adult (1 adult per each child). All participants up to 18 years must have an adult or guardian present at check-in to sign and acknowledge the waiver form.
Inclusivity
- While we are committed to providing inclusive experiences for all guests, certain close-contact animal encounters may not be suitable for every individual due to safety, welfare, or operational considerations. A safety checklist is required to be completed by all visitors on arrival. We encourage visitors, carers, and support workers to communicate any needs or concerns with our staff so we can provide the most inclusive experience possible. Sydney Zoo staff reserve the right to cancel any booking or encounter on an assessed risk or duty of care basis for visitors, animals or staff. In this event, your encounter booking may be rescheduled, credited or refunded.
- Encounter bookings are non-refundable. Any changes to your booking must be made at least 7 days prior to your visit date. Please call us on 02 7202 2560.
Health & Safety
- Fitness requirements: All participants must have the ability to stand and move freely inclusive of crouching, kneeling and be able to walk up a slight gradient over non-sealed surfaces (eg sand and gravel).
- This encounter is not suitable for wheelchairs, walking aids, or people with compromised mobility. Other encounters are available for people with compromised mobility. Please call us on 02 7202 2560 to discuss what other encounters may be suitable.
- Please check in at the information desk at the zoo entrance at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled encounter time. Encounters go ahead on time as scheduled.
Weather & Clothing
- The encounter runs in all weather conditions. We recommend wet weather attire on wet days. Sydney Zoo reserves the right to cancel the encounter in extreme weather conditions. A reschedule date will be offered based on availability.
- Sydney Zoo reserves the right to cancel the encounter for any unseen circumstances. A reschedule date will be offered based on availability.
- Clothing requirements: For your comfort and safety, please wear enclosed footwear suitable for varied surfaces and to provide safety in the habitat. Visually ostentatious garments (i.e. costumes, novelty hats, etc.) are not permitted. Upon check-in, staff will be required to sight the shoes worn and the full mobility of each participant to ensure the highest level of safety for the duration of the animal encounter.
- Please note that any visitors who have been impacted by government health warnings (eg recent contraction of Covid-19 or Foot and Mouth disease) are required to contact our Visitor Experience team on 02 7202 2560 prior to booking.
Website: https://sydneyzoo.com
Telephone: 02 7202 2560 (inside Australia) +61 27202 2560 (from overseas)
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