Bill Oddie, the comedian, ornithologist, and television presenter, has died at the age of 85. His death was announced on Tuesday, and tributes have since poured in from colleagues and fans.

Oddie, known for his work with the comedy trio The Goodies and later for his passionate wildlife documentaries, had long planned his own funeral. He had expressed a desire for a humanist, non-religious service, with his ashes to be scattered at Hampstead Heath in London, a place he frequented for birdwatching. In a 2012 interview, he stated, "I'm an atheist, so I will have a humanist funeral." He also specified his musical choices for the service: Prince's "Nothing Compares 2 U" for the entrance and Spike Jones' "Cocktails For Two" for the exit.

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Oddie's career spanned several decades, beginning with comedy. He was part of "The Goodies" alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, achieving household name status in the UK and internationally. He also wrote jokes and music for shows like "That Was The Week That Was." Later, he transitioned to wildlife television, becoming a celebrated presenter for BBC programs such as "Springwatch," "Autumnwatch," "Birding With Bill Oddie," and "Bill Oddie Goes Wild." His work in conservation and advocacy for environmental issues earned him a new generation of fans.

IMAGE6 The Goodies, from left, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Graeme Garden and Bill Oddie, pictured in 1973, at the height of their fame

Throughout his life, Oddie openly discussed his struggles with mental health, including depression and bipolar disorder. His admission to a psychiatric hospital in 2009 followed his departure from "Springwatch and Autumnwatch," a move that deeply affected him. He reportedly said the BBC's decision, coupled with his mother's institutionalization during his youth, led him to feel he had "lost my family twice."

IMAGE7 With Springwatch and Autumnwatch co-star Kate Humble. Being dropped from the shows in 2009, pained him so much he could no longer bear to watch the programmes he loved

In 2020, Oddie experienced a near-fatal episode of lithium poisoning, which he had been taking to manage his mental health. He described himself as being "very ill most of this summer" and "confused about most things." He also spoke about experiencing deteriorating hearing and eyesight in his later years, which impacted his ability to birdwatch.

IMAGE5 Mr Oddie said in 2020 he was 'knocking on Heaven's door' for almost a year after getting lithium poisoning

Friends and colleagues remembered Oddie for his humor, intelligence, and genuine passion for nature. His agent, David Foster, described him as a "multi-talented celebrity" who valued conservation over fame. Chris Packham, a fellow wildlife presenter, called Oddie a "renegade polymath" who was "invariably funny and occasionally furious" and deeply loved birds. The BBC acknowledged his "long association with the BBC" and his status as a "much-loved comedian, naturalist and broadcaster."

IMAGE3 Mr Oddie's breakthrough came in comedy but he moved into wildlife TV, his great passion

Oddie is survived by his second wife, Laura Beaumont-Giles, and their daughter Rosie, as well as his daughters Bonnie and Kate from his first marriage. His legacy includes not only his comedic performances but also his significant contributions to wildlife broadcasting and environmental advocacy.