[vetvetdoug]

I was always analytical about Mr. Irwin's handling and proximity to dangerous reptiles. He was comfortable handling those that were fairly predictable. I was impressed when he came to the US and would not handle the SE US water moccasin or cottonmouth because he said it was too vicious and unpredictable. This coming from a man that would handle cobras and brown snakes.

Mr. Irwin, always entertaining, was a professional that deserved the respect of those of us that work with animals on a daily basis. Behind the mask of entertainment he truly respected and cared for the animals and reptiles, wild or domestic, with which he worked.

[Paved Paradise]

That was interesting, Doug. I didn't know he wouldn't handle the water mocassin. I loved his ongoing commentary as he did his thing.