The TV star, born in Rochdale, found fame in the 1970s as a member of comic trio The Goodies alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden.
He went on to host wildlife programmes for the BBC, including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
A statement from his friend and agent David Foster 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. As Bill’s agent I witnessed close hand his intelligence and wit. He was my friend and it was an honour and a privilege to represent him for so many years. I will miss him terribly.
“My thoughts and love are with Bill’s wife, Laura, and his daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie, who have asked not to be contacted at this sad time. Please respect their wishes.”
Bill Oddie took a walk on the wild side when he officially opened new visitor facilities at Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, near Carnforth on March 30, 2001.
The VIP launch of the new facilities went ahead although the site was closed to the public.
The reserve had been closed since February 23, 2001 because of the foot-and-mouth crisis - although the visitor centre remained open.
Bill officially opened the new-look centre, tea room and the new education room.
He also celebrated the purchase of new land to expand bird habitats at the site.
1. Goodies star and Twitcher Bill Oddie
Goodies star and Twitcher Bill Oddie got a close encounter when he opened the visitor centre at Leighton Moss Nature reserve in 2001. Parts of the reserve were reopened to the public in spite of Foot and Mouth restrictions. Photo: Peter Wilcock
2. Goodies star and Twitcher Bill Oddie opened the visitor centre at Leighton Moss Nature reserve
Goodies star and Twitcher Bill Oddie opened the visitor centre at Leighton Moss Nature reserve from left: Anne Selby (Director of Lancashire Wildlife Trust. Bill Oddie, Dr Andrew White (HLF) and Robin Horner ( Chief warden.) Parts of the reserve were reopened to the public in spite of Foot and Mouth restrictions. Photo: Peter Wilcock
3. Goodies star and Twitcher Bill Oddie
Goodies star and Twitcher Bill Oddie got a close encounter when he opened the visitor centre at Leighton Moss Nature reserve. Parts of the reserve were reopened to the public in spite of Foot and Mouth restrictions. Photo: Peter Wilcock