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Wildlife YouTuber and South African conservationist Graham “Dingo” Dinkelman died on Saturday, October 26 at 44 years old.
Dingo was often dubbed “South Africa’s Steve Irwin,” known for his love for snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles — and even had a family giraffe at home. According to his widow, Kristy, Dingo was an induced coma for the past month caused by an anaphylactic shock from a venomous snake bite.
“While Dingo was renowned for his involvement with snakes and other reptiles, his compassion extended to all creatures,” Kirsty said in a statement on Dingo’s Instagram page. “There was a special place in his heart for African mammals, his favourites being elephants, rhinos and lions, as well as our own giraffe, Elliot. But it was truly his love for his family that was always behind his purpose, drive, and passion.”
Dingo was born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. He owned Dingo’s Farm and Reptile Park in the South African KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. He was an award-winning Discovery Channel and Youtube Wildlife presenter and pulled in around 3 million views per month on his YouTube Channel. He was an ardent advocate for South African animals and emphasized the importance of creating a connection between people and animals — with hopes to instill consciousness for wildlife among humans.
Per a report from The Telegraph, Dingo was bitten by an Eastern green mamba.
Kirsty continued in her statement, sharing that she and her family will continue to carry on Dingo’s mission.
“Sharing his passion for all creatures, we will continue his legacy, promoting conservation and continuing to share his sense of awe and wonder with the world,” she wrote. “His presence has brought so much warmth, love, passion and laughter to our lives, as well as all of those who knew him, loved him and supported him.”
Dingo is survived by Kristy and their three children — Taylor, 14, Maddy, 12, and Rex, 9.
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