Hello all,
I also was shocked and saddened to learn of Mr. Irwin's death. Way too young to have passed. My thoughts also go out to his family and friends.
As a biologist who has worked in aquariums, and volunteered in zoos, I must admit I was generally a little concerned with how risky Mr. Irwin was in some of his activities. That being said his passion for the field was obvious and I feel Mr. Irwin's passing is a true loss for everyone.
While working at SeaWorld I was envenomed by a stingray once. I must say that the endotoxin of the speecies that stung me was quite strong. However, I was lucky in that I got hit in the forearm even though I could feel the poison work its way up my arm and into the chest, at which point it natutally became dangerous. Thankfully there was medical services nearby and I got prompt attention. I have also had very tall/big co-workers "go down" from an envenomation via stingrays. As such learning that Mr. Irwin died from a stingray envenomation directly to the heart, especially so far away from medical services, was not a surprise. Of course, risk of the barb breaking off in the wound site is something to be concerned of as well, especially since the barb can be serrated.
Nevertheless, as I said I feel his passing to be sad and quite a loss. I do wish the best for his family and his Australian Zoo.
Always,
Sam J.
EDIT: One thing I was not aware of, even with my own envenomation, was the risk of bacterial infection as this aparently can be very dangerous with a sting like this. Even more reason for pause with animals like these, thus knowing where they maybe found and how to avoid an "incident" with these beautiful, and when necessary defensive, animals...
If so that has to seem a little strange for the camera men. What would you do with the footage?
