“G’day, I’m Steve Irwin.”
And with that phrase, a television program airing from 1997 to 2004 had begun. The Crocodile Hunter.
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| The Crocodile Hunter Logo, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Crocodile_Hunter_Logo.png |
This television show showcased the best of our reptiles in the world. It gave positive and equal attention to animals that would normally be viewed as unappealing.
However, teaching about nature and its biodiversity is not new. Many scientists and activists have always done that.
Except, Steve Irwin managed to make it fun. He was interesting and funny and outrageously brave that his zeal and love for our natural wildlife was effective. Steve Irwin was not a preacher, because he didn’t lecture. He was an enthusiast when teaching.
Steve didn’t communicate simply through words, he did through it actions as well. He crept behind lions, interacted with untamed dangerous and usually poisonous animals. He leapt on crocodile backs and grabbed snakes by the tail!
One of my favorite 'Crocodile Hunter' episodes: (Super Croc!)
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| Steve Irwin in action, http://www.sptimes.com/2002/07/08/Xpress/On_the_wild_side_with.shtml |
In his khaki shorts, Steve was energetic in promoting environmentalism, always drawing attention to endangered animals and conserving habitats and lands. He encouraged people to considerate practices.
One thing is clear in his work, is that conservation is key.
“…an environmental Tarzan, a larger-than-life superhero guy.” –Terri Bindi
His television audience is speculated to be about 200 million and counting, with reruns and DVDs and broadcasts.
Steve Irwin was killed by a stingray in 2006, but yet, his influence continues.
Now, a once family-run park from the Irwin family, it is now the Australia Zoo, with hundreds of passionate conservationists and counting. This zoo is funding and participating in countless national and international projects to protect the world’s environment and humanity.
He founded a charity, now called Wildlife Warriors Worldwide, which has helped preserve and conserve, and still continues to do so.
His daughter, Bindi Irwin, has been in movies and shows - using the media to teach and communicate with her television series, “Bindi, the Jungle Girl.” She’s earning a respectable title of being an environmentalist herself. His wife Terri and his 3 year old son, Bob, will also make sure his message is passed on.
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| The Irwin family, http://www.lookoutnoosa.com.au/blog/australia-zoo/ |
And every year, November 15th is Steve Irwin Day, a day to commemorate this great hero.
Steve’s knowledge sparked curiosity, and his passion inspired change. With his charismatic personality and his big gestures, he’s become a wildlife icon.
Because of The Crocodile Hunter, people all around the world are taking actions to sustain the biodiversity of our ecosystems. We’re appreciating the wildlife that is in jungles and forests and the unique animals that nature has given us.
"I consider myself a wild-life warrior. My mission is to save the world's endangered species." – Steve Irwin
Alrighty mate, leave a comment?
I used to watch the crocodile hunter when I was little so this blog brought back some fond memories. I never really thought of the crocodile hunter as an environmentalist becuase I seem to automatically connect that label with "boring". Steve Irwin was definitely not boring. I thought he was somewhat insane becuase of some of the stunts he pulled. However you have made a valid point in saying that he did contribute positively to sustaining biodiversity. Steve Irwin educated a future generation on the importance of species preservation which has an immeasurable impact. Very creative topic connie, I actually enjoyed reading your blog.
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