The U.S. influencer who sparked a major backlash in Australia over her controversial handling of a baby wombat has publicly apologized while simultaneously criticizing the country's treatment of native wildlife.
Sam Jones, whose real name is Samantha Strable, had sparked outrage last week when footage of her disturbing act went viral, showing her picking up a joey from the side of the road. Many, including politicians, animal rights advocates, and members of the public, called for her to face consequences for her actions that many deemed harmful.
In her recent Instagram posts, Jones expressed that she was “truly sorry” for the distress she caused, asserting her intentions were well-meaning. “The snap judgement I made in these moments was never from a place of harm,” she explained, describing how she rushed to check on the baby wombat and its mother, fearing they were injured or sick. She further stated that she did not intend to rip the joey from its mother but was instead concerned about a possible oncoming vehicle.
Jones has 96,000 followers on Instagram and noted that she had done a great deal of reflection following the public outcry, admitting she could have handled the situation better. “I have learned from this situation and am truly sorry for the distress I have caused,” she added.
However, the influencer did not solely focus on her misdeed. In a subsequent statement, she took aim at the Australian government, alleging that it spends millions of taxpayer dollars on “helicopter hunts” for various animals, including deer and horses. “While the Prime Minister wishes harm on me for picking up a wombat, I implore you to take a good, hard look at what is currently being done in Australia,” Jones said in her fiery response.
Her comments coincided with a public backlash that included an online petition demanding immediate deportation for Jones, which attracted thousands of signatures. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Jones' actions as “an outrage,” echoing the sentiments of many who were appalled by her disregard for wildlife.
On March 14, 2025, Tony Burke, Australia's immigration minister, announced that Jones had fled the country as her visa was under review. “There’s never been a better day to be a baby wombat in Australia,” he commented, highlighting the general relief following her departure.
The incident stoked conversations about wildlife protection in Australia, where wombats are considered a protected species. Notably, while culling of wombats and other wildlife can be permitted in some jurisdictions, the complexity of wildlife management remains a contentious issue.
While many saw Jones’ actions as reckless, others speculated about the underlying issues in wildlife conservation and management in Australia. Jones’ intentions, though noble in her view, have ignited a complex debate on how Australians interact with their native fauna.
After her controversial actions came to light, Jones initially made her Instagram account private to shield herself from the backlash but has since reverted it back to public. She skipped an interview on Australia’s Channel 10 talk show, opting instead to send a video emphasizing her apology and defense, which was criticized for lacking accountability.
“I think, frankly, it’s pathetic, given what’s happened,” said Hamish Macdonald, a host on the show. He expressed that while threats against Jones were unacceptable, her unwillingness to explain herself appeared insincere. “Honestly, to say you’re genuinely sorry but not be willing to explain yourself and then point the finger at the Australian government is pretty lousy,” he added, capturing the frustration of many viewers.
In the wake of this incident, the conversation about animal welfare and the portrayal of wildlife interactions—especially on social media—is set to continue. Jones’ case will likely become a reference point in discussions about wildlife ethics and the responsibilities of influencers toward animal treatment and conservation.
As the fallout from this controversy unfolds, many will be watching closely to see whether Jones’ comments about the government's wildlife management practices spark broader discussions about these important issues. Meanwhile, the plight of the wombats, alongside other vulnerable wildlife, remains critical as conservation efforts fight against both public ignorance and indifference.
