We are all familiar with the quokkas on Rottnest Island, with many of us grabbing that quintessential selfie with the friendly and inquisitive species. However, you may not be aware that there are scattered populations of Quokkas across the Southwest of WA, from Perth to Albany
Compared to their Rottnest family members, who have an estimated population of up to 12,000 (2007), the mainland Quokka population is estimated to be around 4000 individuals. This difference in population is thought to be caused by the presence of environmental pressures on the mainland. Such as introduced predators, clear-fell logging, agriculture, fire and mining.
One of these mainland populations is situated right here in the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale.
In 1995, four quokkas were discovered by CALM officers in Jarrahdale. Further studies and sightings have occurred since the discovery, showing that the population is still surviving. Unlike the Rottenest Island quokkas, the mainland populations are overall shy, timid and less inquisitive with their preferred habitat being very dense vegetation, often in swampy areas, with their tunnel-like runs pushing through thick stands of cutgrass, sawgrass and fine round grasses.
Next time you’re in Jarrahdale, be sure to keep an eye out along the trails through the forest, for you might just walk past a Quokka!
Checkout this story from 2018 https://www.yourlocalexaminer.com.au/jarrahdales-secret-wildlife/
Photos by Richard Polden