Influencer who took baby wombat from mother apologises

The US influencer who faced backlash for taking a baby wombat from its mother in a video posted online has apologised.

Sam Jones posted a statement on her Instagram after she left Australia due to the criticism she received, including from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

She claimed she was "concerned it was sick or injured" when she saw the animal lying near the road and stopped to help it.

"I have learned from this situation and have realised that I did not handle this situation as best as I should have," Jones said.

Explaining that when she ran from the mother laughing, she was not trying to separate the joey but was concerned the wombat would attack her.

"The snap judgement I made in these moments was never from a place of harm or stealing a joey.

"While I was unbelievably excited to see such an amazing animal, I looked it over quickly and immediately returned it to its mother.

"I ensured that the mother and joey did reunite, went off together, and that they got off the road."

On Friday, Albanese criticised Jones, suggesting "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".

In a second statement, Jones condemned the Australian government's protection of native animals and Albanese’s criticism of her telling him to "take a good, hard, look at what is currently being done in Australia surrounding the real issues it faces".

"The Australian government allows and permits the slaughter of wombats," she claimed.

"Quietly, of course, so as not to face the wrath that has come upon me.

"Decide for yourself, if I, a person who certainly makes mistakes, am really your villain."