Graham “Dingo” Dinkelman, a South African wildlife conservationist and YouTube personality known as “South Africa’s Steve Irwin,” died on October 26, 2024, at age 44 after being bitten by a venomous Eastern green mamba snake.
Dinkelman, who owned Dingo’s Farm and Reptile Park in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, went into anaphylactic shock due to an allergy to snake venom. He was placed in a medically induced coma for nearly a month before passing away surrounded by his family.
His wife, Kirsty Dinkelman, announced his death, saying how he fought to stay with them, showing incredible determination and courage throughout an agonizing struggle. She expressed the family’s deep gratitude for his unwavering fight to be there for them, holding onto hope with each passing day. Yet, despite his resilience and the strength he showed, he finally passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, offering him love and comfort in his final moments.
The conservationist had built a substantial following through his wildlife education efforts, with over 111,000 YouTube subscribers and 645,000 Instagram followers. His YouTube channel attracted approximately three million views monthly, generating more than 40 million views annually.
As an award-winning Discovery Channel presenter, Dinkelman was recognized for his work with dangerous reptiles and his passion for African wildlife, particularly elephants, rhinos, and lions. His final YouTube video was posted in August 2024, after which he focused on creating content for Facebook.
“While Dingo was renowned for his involvement with snakes and other reptiles, his compassion extended to all creatures,” his wife shared in a social media tribute.
The snake bite occurred in September 2024, leading to his hospitalization and placement in intensive care. Dinkelman specialized in handling venomous snakes, including black mambas and the inland taipan, considered the world’s most venomous snakes.
Dinkelman operated his wildlife sanctuary in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, where he was a specialist breeder of endangered reptiles and amphibians. He also ran a wildlife education center for children, focusing on strengthening connections between people and animals.
He is survived by his wife Kirsty and their three children – Taylor, Maddy, and Rex. His family has announced they will continue his conservation work and educational mission.