A U.S. tourist, Sam Jones, has left Australia after facing intense backlash over a video that shows her running off with a baby wombat while the distressed mother chases after her.
The viral video, originally posted on social media platforms including Instagram and TikTok, sparked outrage among Australians, leading to calls for Jones’ deportation.
In the video, Jones, who has 92,000 followers on Instagram, is seen holding a baby wombat and running toward a car while the adult wombat, presumably the mother, chases after her.
The man filming the incident is heard laughing, as he comments on the situation and jokes about the mother’s pursuit of Jones. The video was later deleted, and Jones’ Instagram account has since been made private.
The video quickly gained widespread attention, with many viewers expressing outrage over the mistreatment of the wild animal.
Australian officials responded swiftly, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirming on March 14 that her visa would be reviewed. He warned that Jones could face deportation if her actions violated the conditions of her stay in Australia.
On Friday, it was confirmed that Jones had voluntarily left the country. Minister Burke made light of the situation, saying, “There’s never been a better day to be a baby wombat in Australia.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also condemned Jones’ actions, suggesting humorously that the influencer try her luck with a more dangerous Australian animal.
“To take a baby wombat from its mother… is just an outrage,” Albanese said. “Maybe she might try some other Australian animals. Take a baby crocodile from its mother and see how you go there.”
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Experts have expressed concern over the distress caused to both the baby wombat, known as a joey, and its mother.
Ecologist Professor Barry Brook from the University of Tasmania called the act a “highly inappropriate” and “dangerous” interaction.
Wombats, though generally not aggressive toward humans, can cause serious harm with their strong claws.
Tanya Bishop, a wildlife veterinarian from the WIRES organization, raised concerns about potential injuries to the joey, especially considering how it was carried by its front legs.
She stated that wildlife officials are still working to identify the location of the incident and confirm whether the joey sustained any lasting injuries.
🚨🇦🇺🇺🇸WOMBAT JUSTICE: U.S INFLUENCER FLEES AUSTRALIA AFTER BACKLASH
Sam Jones, a U.S influencer, has left Australia after sparking outrage by filming herself grabbing a baby wombat from its mother.
PM Anthony Albanese called the act “an outrage”, suggesting she try the same… pic.twitter.com/u5NmLZyQUw
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) March 14, 2025
