Quokka, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © James Vodicka
How to capture the perfect quokka photo
Your go-to guide for capturing a magical snap with a local quokka on Rottnest Island.
Give them space
Give them space
When you arrive on Rottnest Island, the first rule for capturing the perfect quokka snap is to allow them to make their way to you. Crouch down to their level and wait. No matter how excited you might be, it’s always best not to crowd these little guys. You can be sure to give them plenty of space and avoid touching them by using a wide-angle camera to capture the memory.
Explore during the early evening
Explore during the early evening
Increase your chances of an epic quokka photo by choosing the right time of day. You'll most likely catch these cuties sleeping in the early hours, so use that time to explore ‘Rotto’s famous beaches and bays before setting out in search of the ultimate snap. To ensure plenty of quokka time, book a stay at island accommodation like The Lodge Wadjemup.
Find the perfect background
Find the perfect background
If you've made the trip to Rottnest Island, you'll be pleased to know that with a population of around 10,000 quokkas, spotting one is relatively easy. You can tour the island's coastal spoils on foot or hire a bike to cover more ground and switch up the background for that ideal photo.
Snap a mid-snack shot
Snap a mid-snack shot
For an extra cute photo, try to capture the quokkas mid-snack – a moment that often comes accompanied by their biggest smile. Quokkas love to munch on leaves, so if you keep your eyes peeled you’re likely to score a great photo opportunity. Make your way over to Isola for some food of your own, but remember, please don't feed the quokkas during your visit.
Keep quiet
Keep quiet
Our furry friends can scare easily, so lots of noise will likely sabotage your chance at a perfect shot. The more relaxed you are, the better your chances of a long, smiley encounter. No matter how overcome you are by their cuteness, keep your cool and you'll walk away with a much more enjoyable experience.
Visit during breeding season
Visit during breeding season
Our final tip is to plan your visit for Australia's autumn months (particularly April and May), where you might be lucky enough to witness a baby quokka peeking out from its mother's pouch. Seeing Rottnest Island's quokkas at this time of year brings an entirely new level of excitement to the experience but remember to keep your distance - new babies and parents are likely to become stressed by visitors who get too close.
