You know about koalas and kangaroos, but do you know what a quokka is? This sweet-natured marsupial is also native to Australia. The quokka’s docile temperament, friendliness to humans and smiling face have earned it the nickname “the world’s happiest animal.”

Cute as Cute Can Be

Quokkas are furry, gray-brown creatures about the size of cats. They carry their young in a pouch and live on native plants.

While quokkas are endangered on the Australian mainland, they are flourishing on the sparsely populated Rottnest Island. The name comes from the German word for “rat’s nest.” Early German settlers on the island considered the quokkas no better than rats, and named the island after them.

There are more than 14,000 quokkas on the island.

Social Media Stardom

Because quokkas are approachable and sociable, humans have quickly warmed to the little marsupials. Rottnest Island has seen a huge influx of tourists who want to spend time with the friendly fur balls. “Quokka selfies” are a popular pastime among travelers to the land down under.

In fact, conservation officials have expressed concern about letting too many tourists on the island because it could threaten the quokka population. A report from National Geographic Wild discussed the popularity of this cute critter and the Australian government’s efforts to protect it.

But a more recent report found that social media popularity has largely been good for quokkas. The report noted that under new laws, you can be charged a hefty fine for touching quokkas or giving them food meant for humans.

Quokka Memes and More

Everyone who becomes internet famous can also become internet infamous with one poorly placed bad meme. It even happened to the quokka, who’s been unfairly maligned for being a bad parent.

None of this has dimmed the happiness people feel when looking at a sweet, smiling quokka. Here’s to a long, healthy life for these adorable critters.