Internationally known zoologist and former "Wild Kingdom" host Jim Fowler, appearing at a wildlife expo in Florida this weekend, blamed media hype and Senator Bill Nelson for the Burmese python problem in Florida. From an interview with a Florida based newspaper group:

"The media is creating a fear of animals," Fowler said, "and animals are really not dangerous to humans...."

Fowler called the issue of Burmese pythons in the Everglades an example of overreaction, with the probable numbers of snakes and their danger greatly exaggerated. Fowler said Sen. Bill Nelson went so far as to introduce federal legislation that would prohibit importation of any "exotic" wildlife.

Fowler said more people are killed by machines than animals. "We haven't been around on Earth long enough to be horrified about being killed by machines."

Jim Fowler began as co-host of Mutual of Omaha's "Wild Kingdom" with legendary zoologist Marlon Perkins before becoming the main host in 1984, winning four Emmys in the process. Now 80, Fowler is still active and is at the expo to introduce animal exhibits and also offer "a new message for the 21st century." To read more about what Jim is saying and doing now, check out the article in The Walton Sun.