Beloved Wildlife Expert Rico Pentz Succumbs to Venomous Cobra Bite, SA Mourns: “Rest in Peace”

Beloved Wildlife Expert Rico Pentz Succumbs to Venomous Cobra Bite, SA Mourns: “Rest in Peace”

  • Rico Pentz, a dedicated wildlife specialist, sadly lost his life after a cobra bit him on a call-out
  • Pentz, known for his work at Eagle Encounters, leaves behind a legacy of passion for wildlife conservation
  • South Africans on social media are saddened and extending heartfelt condolences to Pentz's grieving family
Wildlife rescuer Rico Pentz died from a snake bite
Wildlife expert Rico Pentz tragically died from a snake bite. Image: @ricopentz
Source: Instagram

Rico Pentz, a beloved wildlife rehabilitation and education specialist from Strand near Cape Town, met a tragic end at the age of 39.

Expert in wildlife conservation

The husband and father of three, known for his dedication to wildlife, was attending a call-out when a cobra bit him last Wednesday, reported TimesLIVE.

His extensive experience and passion for wildlife conservation made him a respected figure in the field.

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Tragic episodes of snake bites

This unfortunate incident wasn't Pentz's first encounter with venomous snakes. Having been bitten twice before, including a puffadder bite in 2018 that required extensive treatment, Pentz continued his work with resilience.

SA extend heartfelt condolences

The news of Pentz's passing has deeply moved South Africans. Tributes are flooding social media platforms. Many people said their thoughts are with Pentz's family during this difficult time.

Mike McCarthy wrote:

"I'm reminded of an Australian guy I used to watch on TV playing with crocs. May their souls rest in peace."

Simphiwe Tom shared:

"I grew up being taught to use a spade to get rid of snakes and I never turned back."

Chantelle Kopman said:

"May his soul rest in peace. Deepest sympathies to his wife and children and family and friends."

Pheziwe Phoshie mentioned:

"Snakes are not for playing, especially cobras are too dangerous."

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Mokhele Hlapane added:

"Deepest sympathies to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace."

Snake brutally kills Mpumalanga matric learner

In another article, Briefly News reported that South Africans were hurt when a matriculant died after getting bitten by a snake while at a camp.

The incident occurred in Mpumalanga and the learner's death touched the nation. Netizens suggested that matric camps should be cancelled, with some blaming the school for what happened.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Hilary Sekgota avatar

Hilary Sekgota (Deputy Human Interest HOD) Hilary Sekgota is the Head of Desk for Evening and Weekend content at Briefly News. She completed a BA in Communication Science from Unisa in 2018 and a Diploma in Journalism from Varsity College in 2010. She also passed a set of trainings by Google News Initiative. Hilary joined the Briefly News team in 2022 and started her journalism career at Tshwane Sun. She has 12 years of experience covering current affairs and human interest topics. Email: hilary.sekgota@briefly.co.za