South African wildlife expert and social media personality Graham “Dingo” Dinkelman, often compared to Australia’s Steve Irwin, has died a month after being bitten by a venomous green mamba snake.
Dinkelman, 44, gained a large online following for his daring videos, showing him handling dangerous animals and raising awareness about conservation.
The incident happened at his home, where the green mamba’s bite led him into anaphylactic shock. He spent a month in a coma before passing away.
His educational videos, watched by millions each month, aimed to inform people about the natural world and promote conservation.
Dinkelman’s content showcased encounters with deadly animals like cobras, forest cobras, inland taipans, crocodiles, and other rare creatures.
He also worked on projects like de-horning rhinos to protect them from poachers, reintroducing endangered pangolins, and relocating brown hyenas.
Additionally, he ran breeding programmes for threatened reptiles and amphibians and a wildlife education centre for children.
Dinkelman previously worked as an investment broker before dedicating his life to animals.
In a 2023 interview, he said his mission was to bring people closer to nature and change attitudes toward wildlife, especially for those fearful of animals.
His wife, Kirstie, shared a heartfelt statement, saying, “Dingo fought incredibly hard throughout this very difficult period.
“We know that he was fighting to be here with us and we are so grateful for this. Sadly, despite his strength and resilience, my beloved husband passed away peacefully today, surrounded by his family.”
The African Snakebite Institute noted that green mamba bites are rare but extremely dangerous, with venom that affects the nervous system and causes severe swelling.
Dinkelman’s unique style and passion for wildlife reminded many of Steve Irwin, who also famously interacted with dangerous animals before his tragic death in 2006.
