Common Wombat
The Common Wombat is a sturdy and solitary little Australian.
Although wombats aren't endangered, individual animals are at risk from feral dogs and road vehicles. Wombats are among the more than 2,000 sick and injured native animals treated each year at the Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre.
The wombat’s rounded head helps to distinguish it from its hairy-nosed cousin. Their front feet are large, with bear-like long claws, and their legs and shoulders are powerful for digging burrows.
The second and third toes of a wombat's hind feet are fused, with a double claw that they use for grooming. Their fur varies from a sandy colour to dark brown or grey.
Wombats can be found everywhere from the tip of Queensland down to Victoria and South Australia. They’re also common throughout Tasmania, and on Flinders Island.
Meeting wombats at Healesville Sanctuary is a great way to see them in their native habitat and learn about the Sanctuary’s conservation programs.
Facts about wombats
- Wombat have a backward-facing pouch so they don't accidentally fill it with dirt when they're digging.
- Wombats have square poo!
