The Common Wombat is a large, burrowing marsupial that lives only in Australia. Three subspecies of the Common Wombat exist: Vombatus ursinus hirsutus (prevalent in the mainland), Vombatus ursinus tasmaniensis (prevalent in Tasmania), and Vombatus ursinus ursinus (prevalent in Flinders Island, although once found also throughout the Bass Strait Islands).

Wombats are herbivores, who feed on grass, roots and herbs during the night, when the temperature is cooler and usually rest in their burrows during the day. Often they dig tunnels under fences to graze on farmlands. Due to this behavior, farmers regard them as nuisances. Their burrows are well hidden and particularly complex, consisting of multiple burrows connected by tunnels and trails, and have several different entrances. Their burrows can be up to 20 meters long, and can be as far as two meters below ground level. Although these animals are solitary, they occasionally share burrows. However, these animals are territorial regarding feeding areas, using scent marking, vocalizations, and aggressive behavior to secure their feeding grounds. When pursued by enemies (Tasmanian devils, eagles), they will dive into a burrow exposing only their rears. The skin of their rear is extremely tough and can withstand a powerful bite.

Common Wombats have a body length of up to four feet long and can weigh up to 75 pounds. The wombats found on the mainland grow larger than those found in Tasmania or on the Flinders Island. The Common Wombat is a strong, stocky marsupial equipped with short, powerful legs and long claws useful for digging burrows. Its closest relation is the Koala. They have thick hair that is either colored brown, gray or black, although usually they are covered in dirt and their color is difficult to determine. Their large noses emphasize the small size of their eyes and ears. In contrast with other marsupials, Wombats have only one pair of front teeth. Their teeth are rootless and continually grow. Female wombats have a backward opening pouch that helps keep out dirt that is kicked up while they are digging.

The Common Wombat was once found throughout southeastern Australia. However, today it exists in Tasmania, eastern New South Wales, eastern and southwestern Victoria, and southeastern South Australia. They prefer to live in grasslands, forests and coastal scrub. They can live beyond five years in the wild. Currently, wombats are killed by farmers who regard them as threats to the maintenance of their cattle. They are decreasing in numbers, as their natural habitat is destroyed. They are also killed by the poison 1080, used as bait to catch rabbits, and are often hit by cars.

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The Wombat can begin breeding at two years of age. Mating occurs throughout the year, and peaks during the wintertime. Despite the fact that the wombat has two teats, she only gives birth to one young, and each birth is usually separated by a period of at least two years. The young remain in the pouch for six months, and are weaned at 15 months, staying with the mother until about 18 months of age.