Longtime Zoo Miami Spokesperson Ron Magill Announces Retirement

Magill plans to transition to a new role as the Zoo Miami Foundation's goodwill ambassador and conservation liaison.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Ron Magill, a nature photographer who became a Miami-based icon as the face and voice for wildlife at Zoo Miami, announced on Sunday that he is retiring after 46 years at the zoo. Magill said his last day will be May 10, but he plans to continue working with the Zoo Miami Foundation as a goodwill ambassador and conservation liaison.

Why it matters

Magill has been a beloved and trusted spokesperson for Zoo Miami, appearing in local and national media to educate the public about wildlife and conservation. His retirement marks the end of an era, but he plans to stay involved in the zoo's conservation efforts through his new role.

The details

In a video posted to social media, Magill said his new position will "allow me to focus on conservation while being closely involved in our local and global communities." He plans to continue speaking to community groups to inspire a love of wildlife and a commitment to protecting it. Magill also started the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment in 2015, which has provided millions of dollars to conservation efforts around the world.

  • Magill announced his retirement on February 15, 2026.
  • Magill's last day at Zoo Miami will be May 10, 2026.

The players

Ron Magill

A nature photographer who became the face and voice of wildlife at Zoo Miami for 46 years.

Zoo Miami Foundation

The nonprofit organization that supports Zoo Miami, which Magill will be working with as a goodwill ambassador and conservation liaison.

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What they’re saying

“In this position, I'll continue to be available to speak to individuals and groups throughout the community and educational, civic and social organizations in the hope of inspiring a love of wildlife and a commitment to protecting it for generations to come.”

— Ron Magill (Instagram)

“In a perfect world, everyone would have a chance to see giraffes walking across the Maasai Mara, a jaguar hunting in the Amazon or a polar bear walking across the Arctic ice. But we don't live in that world. Most people will never experience those moments firsthand. And, that's precisely why zoos matter. Zoos provide essential windows into the natural world.”

— Ron Magill (Instagram)

What’s next

Magill's last day at Zoo Miami will be May 10, 2026, after which he will transition to his new role with the Zoo Miami Foundation.

The takeaway

Ron Magill's retirement from Zoo Miami marks the end of an era, but his commitment to wildlife conservation will continue through his new role with the Zoo Miami Foundation. His decades of experience and passion for educating the public about the natural world will be invaluable as he works to inspire the next generation to protect endangered species and habitats.