Sam Jones Influencer of Instagram and TikTok got into trouble for catching a baby Wombat. US hunting influencer is facing an investigation in Australia after she filmed herself picking up a baby wombat. The video upset many people, and officials checked if she broke any visa rules. Sam Jones
Video Sparks Outrage
Sam Jones, an outdoor enthusiast from Montana, recorded herself holding a baby Joey at night. The video shows Joey walking with its mother when Jones suddenly picks it up. Joey screams while she runs toward a parked vehicle, laughing.
She then says, “Mom is right there, and she’s crazy,” as the mother wombat gets closer. Jones later puts Joey back on the side of the road.
The video, posted on her Instagram account “samstrays_somewhere,” went viral. She was criticised by several animal groups and Australian authorities. Following the criticism, she made her account private and her TikTok account was deleted.
Government Investigates
Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that authorities were investigating the matter. “I can’t wait to see this person go,” Burke said. “We’re reviewing her visa to see if she broke any rules. Either way, I doubt she’ll want to apply for another visa.” Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong also criticised the footage, calling it “appalling” and saying Jones should have left the wombat alone.
Prime Minister’s Reaction
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese strongly criticised Jones. He sarcastically suggested she try raising a more dangerous Australian animal instead. “Maybe she could try holding a baby crocodile and see how it goes,” Albanese said. “Or any other animal that can actually defend itself, rather than picking up a helpless wombat.”
Sam Jones Influencer Defends Herself
Sam Jones Influencer later said she only held the baby for a short time before letting it go.
“For those who are worried, I only held the baby for a minute and then put him back,” he wrote online.
But his response did little to pacify the public. Many are still demanding strict consequences.
Respecting Wildlife
Experts urge visitors to respect animals and interact with them responsibly.
“There are safe, legal ways to see Australia’s wildlife in zoos and conservation centres,” Evans said. “People should admire animals from a distance rather than using them on social media.”
What’s Next?
Authorities are still investigating, and if Jones is found guilty of violating visa rules, he could be banned from returning to Australia. (Sam Jones Influencer)
The case is a reminder that mistreating wildlife, even for a short time, can have serious consequences. (Sam Jones Influencer)
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