Kiddipedia
Disney’s latest theatrical release Zootopia 2 has delivered an adorable surprise for Aussie audiences, a bright-eyed, fluffy little quokka named Dr Fuzzby! Voiced by comedian-actor Quinta Brunson, Dr Fuzzby appears in the film as a warm and wonderfully quirky group-therapy facilitator, helping the film’s heroes, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.
Dr Fuzzby’s scene sees the quokka therapist offering our lead characters a supportive, and insightful hand as their professional and personal relationship has developed since the original film. The humorous scene will give parents a touching insight into how people, or animals in this case, help change each other for the better. The kids will get a big laugh from Dr Fuzzy’s quirky patients and her less than traditional methods.
What do we know about Quokkas?
With their tiny paws, button nose and ever-present smile, Dr Fuzzby feels like pure Australian sunshine dropped right into the vibrant and fun world of the Zootopia films.
If you’ve ever seen a famous ‘quokka selfie’, you’ll instantly recognise the inspiration behind Dr Fuzzby.
Quokkas are among the most charming animals found anywhere in the world and these are some of the fun facts we think everyone should know:
- Quokkas are marsupials, just like kangaroos and wombats
- They belong to the smallest group of wallabies.
- An adult quokka reaches only 40 – 54cm long and weighs around 2.7 – 4.2kg making them roughly the size of a typical house cat.
- Their mouths naturally curve upwards, giving the ‘World’s Happiest Animal’ a permanent smile.
- Quokkas are mostly nocturnal, preferring to rest during the daytime and venture out during the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
- They’re herbivores meaning they feed on grasses, shrubs, leaves and other native plants that grow abundantly across Rottnest. Everything they need nutritionally is found right there on the island.
Where do Quokkas live?
Their natural home is Rottnest Island/Wadjemup, a peaceful, picture-perfect island off the coast of Fremantle in Western Australia. Rottnest Island is famous for its turquoise water, white sandy beaches, relaxed pace, and of course, its thriving quokka population. The island is largely car-free, which means visitors mostly cycle or walk along winding paths that lead to quiet coves, lighthouses, snorkelling spots and gentle bushland.
Families who travel there often say that spotting quokkas is one of the highlights of their visit, and it’s no wonder the island is considered one of Australia’s most special wildlife destinations.
As one explores Rottnest Island, quokkas can often be seen hopping in and out of the shade, nibbling on native plants, or simply lounging in cool sandy patches. Because there are no natural predators on Rottnest, quokkas move freely and confidently, giving visitors a rare chance to observe wildlife up close – though always at a respectful distance in accordance with the Rottnest Island Authority (RIA). The RIA work tirelessly around the clock to ensure quokkas are cared for properly and that visitors to the island engage with them appropriately.
It’s easy to see why Disney chose “the world’s happiest animal” to represent their therapist character in the film. Dr Fuzzby’s design as well as Quinta Brunson herself radiate warmth and kindness – just like their real-life counterparts.
Zootopia 2 has quickly become a major triumph for Disney at the box office. The film opened with enormous momentum, earning AUD$850m globally in its first weekend alone, officially making it the biggest opening weekend ever for an animated movie.
Why is this important?
What makes Dr Fuzzby’s inclusion so meaningful is the real-world curiosity it will spark in Aussie kids. The curious questions are sure to come flooding in as the credits roll, turning a fun family outing into a mini-wildlife lesson!
Representation like this will help kids develop appreciation for native animals while also opening doors to a wider range of topics including learning about Australian habitats, conservation and how different species survive in the wild. Learning does not stop with the kids however as parents may also be inspired to pick-up fun facts about quokkas and their home on Rottnest Island, encouraging a further interest in Australia’s natural wonders.
Dr Fuzzby’s appearance in Zootopia 2 is little celebration of Australia’s unique wildlife and a reminder that even small creatures can leave big impressions. Kids often grow up hearing about kangaroos, koalas and wombats, but quokkas don’t always receive the same spotlight. Seeing a quokka on the big screen, portrayed with warmth and humour, offers a fresh opportunity to recognise their importance and charm. It may even inspire a new generation of wildlife lovers to care for and protect the animals that make Australia so special.
For families planning a movie night, Zootopia 2 delivers colourful animation, clever jokes, heartfelt messages, and now a potential new favourite animal. The fun doesn’t have to end as the credits roll either. Families can research quokkas, look up photos, or give in to their adventurous spirit and start planning a family trip to Western Australia to see the real thing.
