Bill Oddie previously revealed his top three plants to attracts to birds to the garden (stock) (Image: Getty)
The gardening world is today mourning the loss of Bill Oddie, after news broke that the popular television presenter passed away aged 83.
The beloved star, who rose to fame in the 1970s as one third of the comic trio The Goodies, died on Saturday (July 25), according to his family. Bill fronted a number of wildlife programmes for the BBC, among them Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
But it was his profound passion for birding that perhaps defined him most, and throughout his lifetime he shared some wonderfully practical tips to encourage wildlife into domestic gardens. One such piece of advice was shared with Haiths’ Simon H. King in an article published back in 2014.
When asked by the author what people should do to attract birds, he explained: “Plant trees, bushes and shrubs, which produce berries or fruits, or even better, which attract insects: Favourites are Hawthorn, Rowan and Mahonia.”
With his trademark wit, he then added: “Don’t complain about the lack of Song Thrushes if you just happen to kill off slugs and snails, and don’t ask, ‘Where have all the beautiful ladybirds gone?’ if you pummel greenfly with insecticide!”
Bill Oddie has passed away aged 83 (Image: PA)
But what exactly are Bill’s “favourite” plants of Hawthorn, Rowan and Mahonia?
Hawthorn
The RHS notes that Hawthorn “provides a good wildlife habitat, with masses of nectar-rich flowers for insects and autumn berries, known as haws, offering food for birds”. They note that the hawthorn also possesses adaptable characteristics – as it can be cultivated as hedges, shrubs or trees that flourish across various soil types and in exposed locations.
Rowan
“The Rowan, or to give it its proper name, Mountain Ash, is not the only berry-bearing shrub in my garden which attracts birds,” says the RSPB’s Robert McDowell.
The term Rowan derives from the Scots Gallic, meaning ‘red one’. Robert also highlighted that birds have a tendency to “squabble” over the most desirable branches.
Bill was well known for his love of bird-watching (Image: Tony Evans/Timelapse Library Ltd./Getty Images) Mahonia
The RHS describes Mahonia as: “Striking clusters of bright orange-red buds line elegant flower spikes, gradually opening from the base upwards to reveal cheerful yellow blooms that are rich in nectar and popular with pollinators.”
It adds: “As the flowers fade, decorative blue-grey berries develop, adding extra seasonal interest and providing a valuable food source for birds.”
Bill Oddie’s death
A statement from Bill’s friend and agent, David Foster, confirmed the news of the iconic presenter’s death earlier today. 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. He led the way and people of all ages and backgrounds responded to his call. And such a massive contribution to conservation will never be forgotten.”
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