Wombat

The Wombat (Vombatus ursinus and related species) is a sturdy, burrowing marsupial native to Australia, recognised for its short legs, broad body, and distinctive waddle. Found in forested, mountainous, and heathland areas across southern and eastern Australia—including Tasmania—wombats are expert diggers, creating extensive burrow systems with their powerful claws and strong limbs. Their dense fur ranges from sandy brown to grey or black, and they have a broad, flattened head with a large, leathery nose. Primarily nocturnal and herbivorous, wombats graze on grasses, roots, and bark. Remarkably, they produce cube-shaped droppings, helping mark their territory without the risk of it rolling away. Despite their docile appearance, wombats are incredibly strong and can run surprisingly fast over short distances when threatened. As uniquely Australian as the koala or kangaroo, the wombat is a beloved symbol of the bush.