Posted from the US
I heard on the news today that Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter, died after being struck in the chest by a stingray's barb. Death from a stingray is extremely rare (you can pet them at SeaWorld) and of all the animals Steve encountered, this was the least likely to ever harm him.
For some reason this is very difficult news - Steve was a mythic figure, full of life, energy, passion, and ethusiasm for all creatures. He made appreciation and love of all animals cool and exciting for kids of all ages.
I remember a show where he dove in dark water, chasing after a crocodile - emerging with croc's tail in hand and a big smile on his face (both Steve and the croc were unharmed). He was a hero who hurt nothing and educated many.
We'll miss you.
-R
p.s. some interesting Irwin quotes (from BrainQuote)
But I put my life on the line to save animals.
Every cent we earn from Crocodile Hunter goes straight back into conservation. Every single cent.
I have no fear of losing my life - if I have to save a koala or a crocodile or a kangaroo or a snake, mate, I will save it.
My dad taught me from my youngest childhood memories through these connections with Aboriginal and tribal people that you must always protect people's sacred status, regardless of the past.
Take the crocodile, for example, my favorite animal. There are 23 species. Seventeen of those species are rare or endangered. They're on the way out, no matter what anyone does or says, you know.
Crikey, mate. You're far safer dealing with crocodiles and western diamondback rattlesnakes than the executives and the producers and all those sharks in the big MGM building.
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