An American social media influencer has left Australia amid backlash after sharing a video in which she snatches a baby wombat from its mother. Sam Jones, who describes herself as an ‘outdoor enthusiast and hunter,’ stirred outrage across the country for her actions.

In a now-private Instagram video, Jones can be seen taking the baby wombat from the side of a road, prompting its mother to chase after her. ‘I caught a baby wombat,’ she exclaimed as laughter is heard from a man filming the incident. After momentarily holding the young marsupial, she returned it to the roadside.

The video quickly garnered condemnation from politicians and wildlife conservationists, leading to an official review of Jones’ visa by the Australian government. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that her visa conditions were being assessed to determine if any immigration laws had been infringed. Burke also expressed, ‘I can’t wait for Australia to see the back of this individual, I don’t expect she will return.’

‘To take a baby wombat from its mother and clearly causing distress from the mother is just an outrage.’

Prime Minister Albanese added his criticism, suggesting that Jones should try scenarios with more dangerous animals, stating, ‘Take a baby crocodile from its mother and see how you go there.’

The wombat filmed appears to be a common wombat, a protected species native to Australia. Experts, including Yolandi Vermaak from Wombat Rescue, highlighted concerns over the baby’s wellbeing, noting that it appeared disoriented and may not have reunited with its mother. Vermaak stated, ‘The baby has mange and it’s a matter of time before it dies of mange.’ She urged for swift action to ensure the health of both the young wombat and its mother.

The controversy has led to an online petition calling for Jones to be banned from returning to Australia, which has quickly amassed thousands of signatures, reflecting widespread disapproval of her actions and their implications for wildlife conservation.