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Bill Oddie suffered an “almost fatal” accident six years before he died.
The legendary BBC wildlife presenter and birdwatcher died aged 85 on Monday.
However, Oddie, who found fame in the 1970s as a member of comic trio The Goodies, battled an “almost fatal” condition in 2020.
The beloved conservationist nearly died after becoming very ill with “lithium toxicity”.
Oddie - whose mother was schizophrenic - had bipolar disorder and depression, for which lithium may be used.
“Just so you know, I have been very ill most of this summer. Lithium toxicity. Almost fatal!” he wrote on X at the time.
Bill Oddie had an ‘almost fatal’ accident six years before his deathPA ArchiveHe added: "I am still here but very confused about most things! But then aren't many of us.
"IT fuddles my brain. Confusion. Will I return? I Really dunno. I do hope so. Please wish me luck. XX."
Very high amounts of lithium can cause problems with your kidneys and other organs, according to the NHS.
It can cause symptoms such as feeling or being sick, confusion and blackouts, shaking or muscle weakness, facial spasms, blurred vision and feeling faint.
In 2010, the TV presenter revealed he had endured "probably the worst 12 months of my life" due to his struggle with depression and bipolar disorder, having spent two periods in hospital in 2009.
Oddie’s death was announced by his friend and agent David Foster, who 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.”
Bill had the ‘worst year of his life’ in 2009. Pictured in 2010PADavid went on: “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.”
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Oddie was born in Rochdale, Lancashire, and grew up in Birmingham. He studied at Cambridge University where he met Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, with whom he formed the sketch group The Goodies.
They appeared on the slapstick TV show The Goodies for 10 years between 1970 and 1980. The show was revived for a 1981 Christmas special and a six-part series which aired in 1982.
An avid birdwatcher, Oddie later turned to nature presenting on television.
He was known for hosting wildlife programmes for the BBC, including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
If you are struggling with mental health, you can speak to a trained advisor from Mind mental health charity on 0300 123 3393 or email [email protected]