The Crocodile Hunter

Today is a sad day for all of us who have followed Steve Irwin’s antics over the years. While shooting footage for a new show in Australia, he was stung in the chest by a stingray and died almost instantly. He was only 44 and he leaves behind his wife and two children—that’s a real tragedy.

It’s somehow fitting that he died doing what he loved—sharing his passion for the animal world with people around the world. And part of me is surprised something didn’t happen to him sooner, considering all the potentially deadly animals he had worked with.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who would have loved to have him around for decades to come so he could continue to entertain (and educate) us about all the fascinating creatures of Australia. His enthusiasm and energy will be greatly missed—there’s definitely no one quite like him! Irwin also worked tirelessly for conservation, and I hope that all he has done will be continued by others after him.

Goodbye, Crocodile Hunter!