Sad news: Steve Irwin, Crocodile Hunter, is dead.

Steve Irwin, conservationist and wildlife ambassador, has died at the age of 44, still doing what he loved. It appears he got hit with a stingray barb in the heart while filming. News accounts here and here.

My sincerest condolences to Terry, Bindi Sue and Bob, and all the staff of the Australia Zoo.

Behind his zany persona there lived a consumate professional with amazing and effortless skill with animals and with conveying his love for them to the public. I'll never look at a croc again without thinking about what wonderful animals there are.

Crikey, but we'll miss you mate!