US Influencer Faces Backlash for Distressing Wombat Incident in Australia

Following a controversial video showing her taking a baby wombat from the wild, influencer Sam Jones has faced intense backlash from the Australian public and threats to her safety. Apologizing for her actions, Jones defended her intentions while criticizing Australia's animal culling laws.

A US influencer who attracted widespread condemnation for a video showing her removing a baby wombat from its mother has expressed remorse, stating she has since received a barrage of online death threats. Sam Jones, identified as an "outdoor enthusiast and hunter," was recorded laughing as she scooped up the joey by the road while the distressed mother wombat pursued them.

This incident has caused a significant uproar, with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese challenging Jones to confront a more dangerous wildlife encounter, specifically suggesting she try taking a baby crocodile from its mother. In a lengthy Instagram post, Jones claimed her intent was to protect the animals from oncoming traffic and asserted that her actions were not harmful or staged for entertainment purposes. She explained that her decision to intervene was a "snap judgement" driven by fear of the mother wombat's potential aggression.

In her statement, Jones also criticized Australia's controversial animal culling laws affecting numerous native species, including wombats. While wombats are generally a protected species, culling can occur under specific circumstances. This debate resonates deeply within Australia, highlighting a complex relationship with its native wildlife.

The public outrage over the video prompted Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke to announce a review of Jones's visa status. Reports suggest, however, that Jones left Australia before any formal action could be taken against her. Also known as Samantha Strable, the influencer boasts nearly 95,000 followers and has since removed the contentious wombat post from her social media accounts.