R.I.P. Steve Irwin, Crocodile Hunter

I was shocked and saddened to wake up yesterday and learn that Steve Irwin, the star of Animal Planet's long-running series Crocodile Hunter, had died as a result of a stingray attack.

The Aussie daredevil was only 44 years old and was killed whilst filming a new television special called (sadly) Ocean's Deadliest. Irwin was attacked by a stingray, which left its barb buried in Irwin's chest. Normally stingray attacks are not fatal, unless the victim is stabbed by the barb in the heart or stomach.

To me, Irwin will be remembered best for his passion and enthusiasm and his desire to educate everyone, from children to adults, about our planet's amazingly diverse animals.

Rest in peace, Croc Hunter. You'll be missed.