Influencer Faces Backlash After Removing Baby Wombat from its Mother in Australia

After sparking outrage by taking a wild wombat from its mother, influencer Sam Jones has received a torrent of backlash, leading her to apologize and critique Australia's culling laws.

In a shocking incident that has stirred strong emotions across Australia, social media influencer Sam Jones, known for her outdoor adventures, is under fire for taking a wild baby wombat from its mother. Following the widely shared video, where Jones is seen laughing as she scooped up the joey while its mother chased after her, she reported receiving thousands of death threats.

In response to the backlash, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned her actions, humorously challenging her to attempt a similar stunt with a baby crocodile. In a detailed Instagram post, Jones expressed her remorse, claiming her intentions were to ensure the wildlife's safety by preventing the joey from remaining in danger on the road. She stated that her action was not meant to steal the baby wombat but was a snap decision made in fear of the protective mother.

Further complicating the situation, Jones criticized Australia’s animal culling practices regarding various species, including wombats and kangaroos, igniting further debate about wildlife management in the country. The incident attracted such ire that Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke mentioned the possibility of reviewing her visa status, although reports indicate Jones has already departed Australia voluntarily.

Known on Instagram as Samantha Strable, she has approximately 95,000 followers, but has since deleted the controversial post. The fury surrounding this incident has shed light on the larger conversation regarding wildlife protection and the responsibilities of social media influencers in conveying their actions responsibly.