Quokkas are small marsupials that are native to Western Australia. They are known for their friendly and curious nature, and they have become quite popular among tourists who visit Rottnest Island to take selfies with them. However, many people wonder if it is legal to own a quokka as a pet. In this article, we will explore the legalities of owning a quokka and what you need to know before considering bringing one home.
Contents
The Quokka’s Protected Status
Quokkas are protected under Western Australian law, which means that it is illegal to harm, kill, or capture them without a permit. This protection extends to their habitats, which are also protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act. This means that if you want to own a quokka, you will need to obtain a permit from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
The Process of Obtaining a Permit
The process of obtaining a permit to own a quokka is not easy. In fact, it is quite difficult. You will need to demonstrate that you have the proper facilities and resources to care for a quokka, and you will need to provide evidence that you have the necessary knowledge and experience to care for one. You will also need to demonstrate that your reasons for wanting to own a quokka are legitimate.
Facilities and Resources
In order to obtain a permit to own a quokka, you will need to demonstrate that you have the proper facilities and resources to care for one. This means that you will need to have a secure enclosure that meets the minimum size requirements set by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. You will also need to provide evidence that you have the financial resources to cover the cost of caring for a quokka, which can be quite high.
Knowledge and Experience
You will also need to demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge and experience to care for a quokka. This means that you will need to have a good understanding of quokka behavior, diet, and health needs. You will also need to have experience caring for other exotic animals, as owning a quokka is not a task for the inexperienced.
Legitimate Reasons
Finally, you will need to demonstrate that your reasons for wanting to own a quokka are legitimate. This means that you will need to provide evidence that owning a quokka will benefit the species, and that you are not just looking to own a quokka for personal gain or entertainment purposes.
The Risks of Owning a Quokka
Owning a quokka is not without its risks. Quokkas are wild animals, and they can be unpredictable. They are also social animals, and they require a lot of attention and socialization in order to thrive. If you are not prepared to provide this level of care, then owning a quokka is not for you.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, owning a quokka is legal, but it is not easy. If you want to own a quokka, you will need to obtain a permit from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, and you will need to demonstrate that you have the proper facilities, resources, knowledge, experience, and legitimate reasons for wanting to own one. Even if you meet all of these requirements, owning a quokka is still a big responsibility, and it is not something that should be taken lightly.