Naturalist Steve Irwin, star of the popular television program “The Crocodile Hunter” was killed today by a string ray which stung him him in the chest. Mr. Irwin was a wonderful entertainer in addition to being a solid naturalist with a wealth of knowledge, especially in the realm of herpetology.

The Crocodile Hunter inspired more than one puppet character for my troupe and we had one entire skit, entitled “The Sheila Hunter,” which was a parody/tribute to him.

I join with many, many fans in offering condolences to the Irwin family.