Bindi Irwin’s Daughter Grace Tracked a Kookaburra on a Research Trip

Every year, the Irwin family embarks on a crocodile research trip to deepen their understanding of the beloved wild creatures that the late Steve Irwin was so passionate about. Last year, Bindi Irwin’s young daughter Grace Warrior accompanied them, safely reading books with her mother while her father, Chandler Powell, and uncle, Robert Irwin, handled the crocs. This year, the 3-year-old got more involved in the action, taking on the task of tagging and tracking a pretend “wild kookaburra” all on her own. Terri Irwin shared an adorable photo of her granddaughter at work, offering a glimpse into Grace’s promising future.

“We are at the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve for our crocodile research trip,” Terri, known affectionately as “Bunny” to Grace, wrote on Instagram. “Grace has decided to tag and track a ‘wild kookaburra’ as part of the project! Well done Dr. Grace!”

In the heart-melting photo, Grace sports her very own Australia Zoo khaki jumpsuit with a Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve logo and her name, “Grace Warrior,” on the front. Her curly brown hair is tied back in a messy ponytail, and she holds a small red microchip scanner in her hand—the same type that the adults use to study wild crocodiles.

Grace seriously presses a button on the scanner, pointing it at a little plastic kookaburra toy. The Australian bird, known for its distinctive laughing call, is lying on its side, covered with a tiny tissue blanket. The sight of Grace’s serious expression while doing her pretend work is sure to melt anyone’s heart.

“I can’t help but think of Bindi and her dad when I see these posts. They truly warm my heart!!! 💖” one person commented. Another added, “Precious! Gonna be like her mama.🥰”

Grace appears to already have a deep love for animals. In March, Powell shared another sweet moment when he took Grace to the wildlife hospital for a bit of vet training. “Grace spent the morning at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital in our wildlife nursery, treating her little toy whale,” Powell wrote on Instagram, accompanied by photos of Grace and her toy whale. “It’s incredible watching her connect and show empathy towards every species. Our thoughtful veterinarian in the making! ❤️”

While it’s too early to say what career Grace will pursue when she grows up, her actions indicate a strong affinity for animals. Given her family heritage, it wouldn’t be surprising if she follows a path involving wildlife. Grace clearly loves these wild creatures, and her future seems bright in the world of animal care and conservation.