WASHINGTON: American tourist Sam Jones has issued an official statement regarding the viral wombat incident in Australia.
Jones stated she acted out of concern when she saw a mother wombat and her joey motionless on the road.
Fearing the joey was injured or sick, she made a quick decision to pick it up and examine it.
She ran, not to steal the joey, but out of fear that the mother might attack her.
Jones insists she reunited the mother and baby and ensured they left the road safely.
Regret and Apology
Jones admitted she could have handled the situation better and expressed deep regret for the distress caused.
She emphasized that her actions were not for social media attention or entertainment.
She acknowledged her mistake in failing to provide proper context when sharing the video.
The tourist clarified that her intent was never to harm or separate the animals.
Jones expressed sorrow over the backlash and threats she has received since the video surfaced.
Criticism of Australia’s Wildlife Policies
Jones argued that the real issue is the Australian government’s treatment of native animals.
She pointed out that thousands of wombats are legally killed each year by landowners.
Methods such as poisoning, burrow destruction, and shooting are used to control wombat populations.
She highlighted the mass slaughter of brumbies (wild horses), deer, and pigs by government agencies.
Jones referenced official reports showing that some animals suffer painful deaths from aerial culling.
Legalized Killing of Wildlife
Jones criticized the hypocrisy of those outraged by her actions while ignoring government-sanctioned wildlife killings.
She noted that kangaroos, Australia’s national animal, are commercially slaughtered in the millions.
She referenced the sale of kangaroo meat in supermarkets as an example of this practice.
Jones urged Australians to focus on broader conservation issues rather than her momentary handling of a joey.
She suggested that keeping wild animals in zoos is far worse than her brief interaction with the wombat.
Public Backlash and Political Response
The incident sparked widespread criticism, with many calling for Jones’ deportation.
Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke reviewed her visa status following the public outcry.
Jones ultimately left the country voluntarily before any official action could be taken.
She responded to the outrage by challenging Australians to examine their treatment of native wildlife.
Jones questioned whether she truly deserved to be vilified for her actions.
A Call for Reflection
Jones urged the public to consider the broader impact of human activity on wildlife.
She stated that government policies prioritize economic interests over animal welfare.
She encouraged Australians to demand stronger protection for native species.
Jones concluded her statement by asking people to reflect on the real issues facing Australia’s wildlife.
She challenged critics to reconsider whether she is truly the villain in this controversy.
