An American influencer who took a baby wombat from its mother in footage shared to social media has left Australia after significant backlash, the government has confirmed.
Montana-based Sam Jones was filmed picking up the wombat from the side of the road, as its distressed mother watched on.
Jones' actions drew a strong backlash from the public — and the attention of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who described the actions as an "outrage".
"I suggest to this so-called 'influencer', maybe she might try some other Australian animals. Take a baby crocodile from its mother and see how you go there," he said.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke — in confirming Jones had left the country — told 9News: "There's never been a better day to be a baby wombat in Australia."
He earlier said in a statement the department was investigating whether the conditions of Jones' tourist visa was breached by her actions in the video.
"The department is now working through the conditions on her visa and determining whether immigration law has been breached," Burke said.
"Either way, given the level of scrutiny that will happen if she ever applies for a visa again, I'll be surprised if she even bothers.
"I can't wait for Australia to see the back of this individual. I don't expect she will return."
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