It was reported today that Australian naturalist and television personality Steve Irwin was killed by a stingray during a diving expedition off the Australian coast. I was deeply saddened to learn this, I really liked his unconventional personality and most of all his views on conservation: he was implacably opposed to the hunting, not just of crocodiles, but of any animal. 

He lived surrounded by wildlife since the day he was born: his parents founded the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park which specialized in rehabilitating ill or injured baby kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and koalas. Thanks to the success and hard work of Mr. Irwin the park grew into what is now Australia Zoo. In their website they posted a note informing the public of the tragic events and noted that Mr. Irwin died doing what he loved most and in complete peace of mind.

May he rest in peace, all the best to his wife and young kids. He was a great man, we will truly miss him.