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Wildlife presenter, comedian and conservationist Bill Oddie has died at the age of 85, his agent has confirmed.

The much-loved television personality, who first rose to fame in the 1970s as one-third of the legendary comedy trio The Goodies, alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, died on Saturday.

Following his success in comedy, Bill became one of Britain’s most recognisable wildlife broadcasters, inspiring generations to appreciate and protect the natural world. Throughout his television career, he fronted a number of popular BBC programmes including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.

His agent and longtime friend, David Foster, paid tribute to the broadcaster, describing him as “Britain’s best-loved birder.”

He said: “It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of Bill Oddie, the country’s best-loved birder.

“Bill was a multi-talented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued.

“Instead he encouraged us to respect and protect the environment. He taught us the wonder of it. He protested, lobbied and campaigned for it.”

Oddie’s unique ability to combine humour with a genuine passion for nature made him a household name. Whether making audiences laugh with The Goodies or introducing viewers to Britain’s wildlife, he remained one of the country’s most respected and influential broadcasters.

His death marks the end of an extraordinary career that spanned more than five decades, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both British entertainment and wildlife conservation.

Tributes are expected to continue to pour in from colleagues, conservation organisations and fans whose lives were touched by his work.