Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat

Lasiorhinus latifrons

The southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) is a burrowing marsupial of dry southern Australia, especially South Australia and parts of the Nullarbor region. It is smaller and more compact than the common wombat, with soft grey-brown fur, pointed ears, and a broad muzzle covered in fine hairs. Groups share large warrens that buffer summer heat and winter cold. These wombats graze on native grasses and other tough plants, conserving water well enough to live in semi-arid country where surface water may be scarce.

They are not suitable pets, and handling is normally limited to permitted wildlife carers, zoos, sanctuaries, and research teams. Captive yards must account for digging strength, heat stress, and the need for retreat spaces that feel like burrows. A low-energy, high-fiber diet is important because rich food can cause obesity and digestive problems, while constantly growing teeth need abrasive forage. Field management includes mapping warrens, reducing vehicle deaths and illegal culling, and watching for drought-related declines or mange outbreaks. The species is far more numerous than the northern hairy-nosed wombat, but local colonies can still be vulnerable when grazing pressure, land clearing, or prolonged dry periods reduce food.