Private Campfire Farewell For Steve Irwin To Be Followed By "Exciting" Public Memorial - Page 2

Hanna, former director of the Columbus Zoo and host of his own wildlife show, said, "[Steve] wasn't really taking that many chances. He was not a dumb guy, you know. There's a big difference between being calculated and in a safe situation and being foolish. And he wasn't being foolish any time that I saw him."

Jeff Corwin, star of his own Animal Planet wildlife series, often approaches venomous snakes and dangerous animals in the same manner Irwin did. Corwin told CNN Steve's death was one of those bizarre events calling for one to take stock of one's life. "'The reality is, there's always a risk when you work with wildlife. You do your best to take precautions.'"

Speculation over the risks the Croc Hunter took to educate audiences on the beauty and necessity of wildlife and habitat preservation have been a recurring theme in the media and online for years. However, as wife Terri Irwin once pointed out, police and firefighters head out to their jobs and face unknown dangers every day. Pilots, construction workers, the military, all face certain risks each time they show up for work. The key, of course, is in knowing the risks, training to minimalize the danger, and accepting the responsibility for yourself and your crew. And it would seem, based on statements made by those who work in conditions similar to Steve's, he was educated, skilled, and always prepared.

Let the naysayers and critics spout their ill-timed and, often, cruel words. Such is the nature of celebrity and snarky opponents. Let it be known, though, the majority of the world mourns over the loss of Steve Irwin and will remember him as the man who brought the wild, and a bright ray of light, into our homes.

Since most fans will not be able to jet down to Australia for the public memorial this (or, more likely, next) week, allow me to offer a suggestion or two: pull out all your old videotapes of The Crocodile Hunter and have a good cry. Then, go volunteer at a local wildlife rehab facility or make a donation to the Wildlife Warrior Fund in Steve's honor.

Article Author: Joan Hunt

Former Baywatch babe, Playboy centerfold, and stunt double for Abe Vigoda, Managing Editor of Blogcritics and member of the board of directors for BLUSD, Joanie juggles her love of words, music, photography, wildlife, and television with her greatest love -- her kids. …

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