Jim Fowler, who introduced the world to exotic wildlife on the long-running TV series Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, has died. He was 87 years old and passed at his home in Norwalk, Conn., according to his family, who didn’t reveal the cause of death.

Show sponsor Mutual of Omaha saluted Fowler today with a tweet. “We honor Jim Fowler, who passed away on May 8, 2019. Jim was a true wildlife icon.”

Fowler was a zoologist whose exploits included becoming the first man to successfully trap a harpy eagle and bring it back alive in the Us. His show delved into animals and their world with deep respect, teaching conservation long before it was fashionable to the mainstream.

He was also known for his frequent guest spots on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Fowler appeared as a guest more than 100 times, usually bringing along an unusual animal that would...