Steve Irwin, better known as the crocodile hunter, was a wildlife enthusiast and conservationist,

owner of the Australia Zoo and a TV icon loved all over the world, known for his signature

catchphrase, Kroiky, his classic khaki uniform, and a lot of personality.

Steve Irwin became a brand.

To many, he also seemed like a huge nut, more akin to a reckless circus ringmaster than

a dedicated conservationist.

But behind all the fun and adventurous image, full of manic enthusiasm, khaki shorts, catchphrases,

was an intelligent and driven man who was deeply passionate about wildlife conservation and

had a sensitive and huge heart for all animals, especially the one feared most by us.

Steve was fastened about wildlife from a young age.

He was gifted a 12 foot python at age 6, caught his first crocodile at age 9, and spent

his time exploring nature, mostly instead of playing games with his friends.

A boy from the suburbs of Melbourne turned his love for wildlife into a multi-billion-dollar

empire with no degree, no certifications, no expert qualifications.

What he did have was an intense passion for wildlife conservation, extraordinary skills

with animals thanks to a very atypical upbringing and a charismatic personality.

Steve Irwin grew up on a reptile park owned by his parents.

He spent his days catching snakes, lizards, and rehabilitating injured animals with his

mom and dad.

Then over the course of Steve accompanying his father on some government-sponsored expeditions

to catch nuisance crocodiles, he had that, aha!

This is what I want to do moment.

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