Jim Fowler

Here is a full, SEO-optimized profile of Jim Fowler (though note: his widely documented birth year is 1930, not 1932) — zoologist, TV naturalist, conservationist, and educator.

Jim Fowler (April 9, 1930 – May 8, 2019) was an American zoologist, television host, and conservationist best known for Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom. Explore his life, career, philosophies, and memorable quotes in this detailed biography.

Introduction

Jim Fowler was one of the most recognizable naturalists on American television. As co-host (and later solo host) of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, he brought wildlife into millions of living rooms, educating and inspiring generations about the wonders—and fragility—of the natural world. His career spanned decades of broadcasting, conservation advocacy, public speaking, and field research. In many ways, Jim Fowler helped define the role of the “TV naturalist” and bridged the gap between science, entertainment, and environmental action.

Early Life and Family

Name and Birthdate
James Mark Fowler was born on April 9, 1930, in Albany, Georgia, U.S. (Some sources list 1932 as his birth year, but most authoritative accounts and obituaries use 1930.)

His father, Earl Fowler, worked as a soil scientist (notably in the pecan industry and later with the U.S. Soil Conservation Service), and his mother, Ada Fowler (née Frazer), was a homemaker and occasional teacher.

During his childhood, the family relocated to Falls Church, Virginia, where Jim explored streams, woodlands, and nature in and around the family home—developing an early love for wildlife and natural environments.

He attended Westtown School, a Quaker preparatory school in Pennsylvania, graduating in 1947. Earlham College (Richmond, Indiana), from which he graduated in 1952.

Youth, Education & Early Research

At Earlham College, Fowler studied zoology and geology (among other natural sciences).

After graduation, Fowler delved into direct wildlife work. He trained with John Hamlet’s Birds of Prey in Florida (as a trainer and lecturer), gaining practical experience with raptors and public outreach.

He undertook field studies in South America and the Amazon, focusing especially on the harpy eagle, one of the world’s largest raptors.

These scientific and field credentials, although not always foregrounded, underpinned his authority as a wildlife communicator.

Career and Achievements

Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom & Television

In 1962, Jim Fowler began working with Marlin Perkins as co-host on the wildlife television show Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom.

Over the years, the show won four Emmy Awards and earned an endorsement by the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) for family-friendly educational content.

When Marlin Perkins retired (he passed away later), Fowler became the full host. Wild Kingdom until its original run ended (in the late 1980s) and later participated in revivals and related wildlife programming.

Beyond Wild Kingdom, Jim Fowler engaged in numerous media appearances:

• He was wildlife correspondent for NBC’s Today Show starting in 1989.

• He made many appearances (over 80) on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, bringing animals on set and popularizing nature education.

• He later was associated with Animal Planet, and led his own TV show Jim Fowler’s Life in the Wild in 2000.

He also gave lectures, public demonstrations, and educational programs using trained animals, always with an emphasis on conservation and raising awareness.

Recognition, Conservation & Leadership

Throughout his career, Fowler received multiple honors for his contributions to wildlife education and conservation:

• Explorers Club Medal (their highest honor)

• Lindbergh Award (for contributions to the balance of technology and nature) in 2003

• National Conservation Achievement Award in Education (National Wildlife Federation) in 2012

• Honorary Doctor of Laws from Earlham College

He also served on boards of conservation organizations, including the National Wildlife Federation advisory board, Global Communications for Conservation (GCC), and Friends of Conservation. Educational Wildlife Services, Inc. and at times honorary chairman of the Explorers Club.

His mission was consistent: use mass media and personal appearances to influence public attitudes about habitat preservation, wilderness protection, and the integration of human societies with basic ecological laws.

Historical & Cultural Context

When Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom first aired, nature programs were rare on television. Wild Kingdom helped pioneer the genre of wildlife documentary programming for mainstream audiences.

Fowler’s on-air style—bold enough to bring live animals to talk shows, yet educational in tone—helped demystify wildlife for the public. He played a role in helping build broad popular support for endangered species protection and habitat conservation in the U.S. during the 1970s–2000s.

His work overlapped with major environmental legislation (e.g. Endangered Species Act), rising public awareness of biodiversity loss, and the expansion of cable channels devoted to nature (e.g. Animal Planet). In this shifting media and political landscape, Fowler leveraged celebrity and science to advocate for the environment.

Legacy and Influence

• Educational impact: Millions watched Fowler’s shows, gaining exposure to species, ecosystems, and the challenges facing wildlife.

• Conservation advocacy: His consistent message made ecological awareness part of popular culture.

• Media model: Fowler’s role as scientist-communicator helped set the template for later TV naturalists (e.g. David Attenborough, Steve Irwin, Jeff Corwin).

• Institutional support: His affiliations and board work strengthened conservation networks and outreach programs.

• Continued memory: After his death, his work continues to inspire conservationists, biologists, and media educators.

Personality, Style & Philosophies

Jim Fowler was known for being earnest, adventurous, educational, and deeply passionate about wildlife and ecosystems. He believed that humans are not separate from nature, but embedded within it.

He often expressed themes such as:

“The continued existence of wildlife and wilderness is important to the quality of life of humans. Our challenge for the future is that we realize we are very much a part of the Earth’s ecosystem, and we must learn to respect and live according to the basic biological laws of nature.”

“Almost all of the social tragedies occurring around the world today are caused by ignoring the basic biological laws of nature... The quicker we humans learn that saving open space and wildlife is critical to our welfare and quality of life, maybe we’ll start thinking of doing something about it.”

In his public demeanor, he combined accessibility (willingness to bring animals onto talk shows), humility (emphasis on education, not ego), and a consistent moral urgency about conservation.

Famous Quotes of Jim Fowler

• “The continued existence of wildlife and wilderness is important to the quality of life of humans. Our challenge for the future is that we realize we are very much a part of the Earth's ecosystem, and we must learn to respect and live according to the basic biological laws of nature.”

• “Almost all of the social tragedies occurring around the world today are caused by ignoring the basic biological laws of nature... The quicker we humans learn that saving open space and wildlife is critical to our welfare and quality of life, maybe we’ll start thinking of doing something about it.”

These statements reflect his belief that ecological awareness is not optional, but foundational to human well-being.

Lessons from Jim Fowler

1. Science communication bridges worlds.
   Fowler showed that people with scientific background can engage the public without diluting complexity.

2. Media can be a force for conservation.
   He leveraged TV, talk shows, and public appearances to spread ecological ideas widely.

3. Field experience matters.
   His work with raptors, in Amazon habitats, and other direct research grounded his credibility.

4. Persistence is key.
   Decades of consistent voice, even when popular media shifted, sustained his influence.

5. Humility in advocacy.
   His style emphasized learning, stewardship, and respect rather than showmanship alone.

Conclusion

Jim Fowler’s life was a testament to how passion, knowledge, and media savvy can combine to influence hearts, minds, and policies. He wasn’t merely an entertainer—he was a teacher, advocate, and bridge between wildlife and humanity. His quotes remain timely, his mission remains urgent, and his legacy reminds us that caring for the natural world is integral to caring for ourselves.