[Shaun]

Source: Here

TV presenter and ornithologist Bill Oddie has quit wildlife programme Springwatch, the BBC has confirmed.

The former Goodie has decided to "take a breather" and will not take part in the next series, which begins in May.

He has presented the nightly nature show for the last four years alongside Kate Humble. It is not yet known whether anyone will take his place.

The new series of Springwatch will kick off with a one-hour special showcasing Oddie's favourite moments.

"I'm really going to miss working with Kate and the team but after an amazing four years of really intense work it feels like the right time to take a breather and recharge my batteries," the often-cantankerous presenter said.

The BBC said Oddie remained an important part of the wildlife broadcasting team and would continue to work on other programmes, including Bill Oddie's Top Ten.

The door has been left open for him to return to Springwatch - although he has almost certainly been ruled out of this year's instalment of the series' sister show, Autumnwatch.

Neil Nightingale, head of the BBC natural history unit, said: "Bill's inimitable style, in depth expertise and unflinching dedication have helped establish Springwatch and Autumnwatch as two of the nation's favourite natural history programmes.

"Although he's stepping out of the picture for this series he remains an important member of the Springwatch family."

Springwatch, which encourages viewers to spot wildlife in their gardens and get involved with nature conservation, is a popular fixture in BBC Two's schedules.

Its appeal has been put down to the play-off between Oddie's gruff, matter-of-fact persona and Humble's more chatty manner.

Last year's series had an average of 3.5 million viewers nightly.

[arista]

That is real sad.

But I can understand why he gets angry with the BBC crew.

[Jen]

What?!
Utter travesty.

[MrGaryy]

Is it awful that I have no idea what Springwatch is?

[arista]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009...cs-springwatch

He wants a break.

I did not think he was that old
Great guy.

[arista]

Sadly Bill
has now gone to a Nut Home.


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/arti...epression.html


With no job
he just went downwards.

[Dom:D]

I don't watch this but it sounds sad

[Sod_James]

Bill Oddie allways use to make me laugh. hes amazing hes just so odd

[arista]

I like Bill , great talent
I hope he soon gets well.

[Red Moon]

Billy Oddie is a very fine and knowledgeable nature presenter. His natural interest in subject shines through into the programme and make it what it is. This is a sad day for Springwatch, lets hope he returns next year.

[Magic]

[arista]

Chris Packham is the New Presenter of Springwatch
well he is a good guy and sure does know a great deal on many animals
and birds.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009...hes-games-bbc2

[pinkmichk]

oh god no not that bloke he will ruin what bill oddie did very very well

[arista]

Its not his fault Bill left.

[pinkmichk]

nope but that bloke is rubbish

[arista]

Originally posted by pinkmichk
nope but that bloke is rubbish

Thats Just
your view.

[Lauren]

Bill-oddie hell!









(Someone please get my joke).

[SiaSiaSia]

Originally posted by Lauren
Bill-oddie hell!









(Someone please get my joke).

HAHAHAHAHA!!
i got it, lauren

[Harry!]

Springwatch will never be the same with out Bill.

[arista]

Originally posted by Madonna
Springwatch will never be the same with out Bill.

I agree
he had Magic
great performer.


He could return later
if he wanted to.