Hi all, This is my first post to this list so forgive me if I did not respond correctly. I've read the numerous replies about Steve Irwin and although some of the things I want to say have already been said, I feel the need to reiterate them as well as make new contributions.
First off, to those who said Steve was not involved in any type of research, you obviously have not watched all of his shows. There have been vast amount of references to what scat can reveal about an animal (the "dragon poop" episode), how catching endangered monitors will be used for captive breeding to save the species, and how he helped put tracking devices on the backs of the "super crocs" to track the movement of the enormous living dinosaurs, just to name a few! Some people said that (basically) he was obnoxious and he disturbed the animals he showed us on film. Granted the crocs most likely didn't enjoy getting jumped on, it was necessary for their survival. Most of the crocs he filmed were ones that had to be relocated from the area because they were "problem crocs" and faced certain death from the locals if Steve and his crew didn't relocate them. In that case, I'm sure the crocs would rather survive and deal with some people jumping on them for a bit. How many people around the world do you think cared about crocodiles or other "monster" animals before Steve brought them into their living rooms? Not nearly as many that care about them now! Before I became a fan of Steve in 1998 at the age of 14, I was terrified of snakes and crocs! Because of Steve though, five years after I watched his program I was awarded the job of a park interpreter at a state park. It was my job to go out and catch snakes, skinks, turtles, etc., and then give programs on them. Did those animals enjoy me catching them and showing them to the public? Probably not. But you know what? I probably inadvertently saved not only their lives, but their kin and other members of their species by doing that, as is what Steve did through his programs. People fear what they don't know. If you can teach people about something, then they can love it. If they love it, they want to save it. Is that worth getting an up close experience with an animal for a few moments? Absolutely, in my opinion. Moreover, eight years after watching my first "Crocodile Hunter" episode, I have attained a B.S. in biology and now work at a national park, all because I was fascinated by Steve's enthusiasm and passion in preaching the conservation message. I think it is absolutely ridiculous to say that Steve did more harm then good, for his message will forever be remembered. He touched over 200 million lives with his "conservation through education" message and *that* is a such a wonderful accomplishment that not many people have come close to achieving. He truly did change our world. Sincerely, Desiree Pitts
