A shallow resting place is usually excavated against a tree or log near the mouth of the burrow, as a site for sunbathing. Paths often lead from burrows to feeding areas. Wombats eat mainly grasses, roots, bark, and fungi. Wombats do well in captivity and often become interesting and affectionate pets. They have suffered serious reduction in numbers and range.
People are their chief enemy.
Colonies have been exterminated near settled areas because of damage to crops and because domestic livestock may injure a leg by breaking through into the burrows. Wombats also have been destroyed in the campaign against rabbits, as these introduced pests often shelter in wombat burrows. There are many regions in Australia where these unusual mammals could reside without disturbing human developments. Adequate protection would probably enable wombats to maintain a stable population. It is surprising how little detailed information is available regarding them.