Prince William hikes with TV icon’s son & poses for selfie as he reveals his favourite animal during South Africa trip
PRINCE William has gone for a hike with a TV icon’s son – posing for a selfie and revealing his favourite animal.
The Prince of Wales joined Robert Irwin for a walk up Signal Hill, which overlooks the South African city of Cape Town.
Robert is the son of Aussie nature presenter Steve Irwin, known to millions as the Crocodile Hunter.
William, 42, posed for a video selfie with Robert at the top of Signal Hill, which is next to Table Mountain.
In the clip, Robert asked him: “Do you have a favourite African animal?”
The prince replied: “Oh, it’s a really tough question. My children ask me this regularly.
“I’m think I’m going to have to say the cheetah. Very cool, fantastic animals.”
Revealing his own favourite animal, Robert said that chameleons are “unsung heroes”.
An impressed William said: “I love them.”
As the pair clambered up the rock-strewn hill, William said: “I’ll try not to wipe myself out in front of everybody.”
Signal Hill is a Cape Floral Kingdom World Heritage Site, boasting rare and endangered plants including the unique fynbos.
William was told while it is rare for bigger game to visit it is a haven for bird and insect life.
He said: “Well it’s looking spectacular at the moment.”
Speaking to rangers, he said: “What a stunning spot to met you guys in. Look at this, it’s amazing.”
The prince wore an eco-friendly shirt by EcoAlf and a jacket by Rapanui.
The Prince stopped to hello to Lia, a Dutch Shepherd dog, who was taking advantage of the moment to lie down.
Smiling, he said: “Take your time, it’s not a problem. That’s how we should all be today.
“She knows we’re not a threat so she’s taking some ZZZs while she can.”
William also praised the work the rangers which is often low paid and incredibly dangerous.
He said: “You guys put yourself at risk keeping wildlife and tourists safe.”
On their hike William and Robert discussed conservation work in South Africa.
William is in the country for four days – culminating in his fourth £50million Earthshot Prize.
Yesterday William began his trip by playing touch rugby with kids — and renewing his acquaintance with “The Beast”.
He was spotted laughing when two lads grabbed him as he ran with the ball in Cape Town.
Also taking part in the game was 22-stone Tendai “The Beast” Mtawarira — a former rugby star he first met after Wales played the Springboks in 2014.
Wills joked with the 6ft 6ins prop: “You’re still as big as you were — bigger!”
The Prince and rugby ace laughed as they recalled the last time they met in a changing room after the Springboks beat Wales a decade ago.
The Beast said afterwards: “He came into the dressing room and I was only dressed in my towel.
” I said it was nice to shake your hand now I’m fully dressed – as opposed to half-naked.”
The visit was held to support The Atlas Foundation charity which takes rugby to kids living in poverty.
He kicked off the trip at the Earthshot Prize Climate Leaders Youth Programme at Cape Town venue, Rooftop on Bree – with its stunning views of Table Mountain.
And told 120 future leaders from Africa and Asia “you are going to change the world”.