Australia has long been known for its biodiversity. With such a rich ecosystem and amazing conservation policies, The Oz has offered safe habitats for all sorts of flora and fauna. There are many animals that are unique to the continent, and many are incredibly cute! Koalas and kangaroos are incredibly famous as mascots of Australia, but there are other creatures that deserve the spotlight.

Get to know these adorable and unique animals found in Australia:

Quokka

One of the cutest and happiest animals on Earth is the quokka. Found in Western Australi’s Rottnest Island, these balls of fur live abundantly, satisfied with grasses, shrubs and leaves. Quokkas are nocturnal creatures and grows as large as a cat. Like their relatives the kangaroo and the wallaby, quokkas have pouches where their joeys live for six months.

Platypus

Looking like a weird cross between an otter, a beaver and a duck, the platypus’ strangeness only begins in its appearance. For one thing, it is classified as a monotreme, a mammal that lays eggs instead of giving birth. Also, it is one of the few species of venomous mammals in the animal kingdom. Their venom is severely painful, but thankfully not lethal. These strange and curious creatures are abundant in the East as well as in Tasmania. You can also spot them in selected zoos in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Tasmanian Devils

Perhaps popularized by the Looney Tunes character Taz, Australia’s Tasmanian Devil actually looks nothing like its cartoon counterpart. Tasmanian Devils are actually pretty adorable, though we wouldn’t argue about them being “devils.” Not necessarily evil but pretty close, these furry fiends are known for their frightening growls and spine-tingling screeches. They look like a cross between dogs and bears, with red ears and wide jaws filled with sharp teeth. And yes, they are carnivores.

 

What do you think about these animals? Watch out for Part 2 of our list next week!

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Apart from animals, The Oz is also home to amazing musicians. Check out Bedssi’s list of the most famous music artists in Australia.

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