- American influencer Sam Jones might lose her visa after a viral video showed her taking a baby wombat from its mother. Australian officials claim her actions may have violated wildlife protection laws, causing public outrage.
- Australian immigration authorities are investigating Jones’ actions and reviewing her visa status.
- Disney star China Anne McClain also faced backlash for mishandling wildlife, emphasizing the importance of adhering to local wildlife laws.
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An American influencer in Australia is facing potential visa revocation after a viral video showed her taking a baby wombat from its mother. Officials say her actions may have violated wildlife protection laws.
Sam Jones, a self-proclaimed outdoor enthusiast and hunter with over 92,000 Instagram followers, shared the now-deleted video on social media. The footage showed her picking up a baby wombat while its mother chased after her.
The video quickly gained traction online and captured Jones and the cameraman laughing while holding the joey. Moments later, the cameraman pointed to the mother wombat chasing behind them.
Wildlife advocates and Australian officials condemned the video, calling it distressing and irresponsible. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese weighed in on the controversy during a press conference.
“To take a baby wombat from its mother and clearly cause distress to the mother is just an outrage,” Albanese said.
Visa under review
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke says Jones’ actions prompted an investigation by Australian immigration authorities, according to CNN. Officials are now reviewing her visa status to determine whether she violated its conditions.
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act protects native Australian wildlife. While wombats are not endangered, interfering with them could be considered illegal. Penalties for wildlife offenses vary by state but can include up to seven years in prison and fines of nearly $150,000.
Albanese took a sharp tone when addressing the situation.
“Maybe she might try some other Australian animals,” he said. “Take a baby crocodile from its mother and see how you go there.”
Amid the backlash, Jones’ Instagram was set to private, and her TikTok appears to have been deleted. A government source told The Guardian that she left Australia Friday morning, March 14.
China Anne McClain’s sea turtle controversy
This is not the first time an influencer has faced criticism for mishandling wildlife.
Disney star China Anne McClain recently apologized after posting a now-deleted video of herself touching sea turtles in Hawaii.
The incident sparked backlash, as Hawaiian law protects the endangered species from human interference.
Both incidents serve as reminders that travelers should educate themselves about local wildlife laws. Respecting nature and following regulations can help avoid controversy — and legal trouble — while abroad.
