MIAMI — A surprise announcement came Sunday from Zoo Miami’s Ron Magill.

The face of the zoo and fierce animal advocate who so many of you have seen on Local 10 News over the years has announced his retirement.

He posted a video to social media Sunday morning.

In the video, Magill highlighted some of the many accomplishments he’s made over the years as a wildlife expert, photographer, and as communications director at Zoo Miami.

He said his proudest achievement has been the creation of the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment at the Zoo Miami Foundation.

“When people ask me what I want my legacy to be, I want it to be this endowment,” he said. “Long after all of us are gone, it’ll continue to fund conservation initiatives and scholarships.”

Magill has been with Zoo Miami for 46 years.

For decades, he has dedicated his incredible career to wildlife conservation, education and animal care.

The South Florida icon even joined Local 10’s Kristi Kreuger for our Eco Hero specials, telling countless stories about wildlife conservation.

In his video, Magill went on to thank Miami-Dade County for the opportunities he’s received, journalists for teaching him how to be a storyteller, and the professionals on the front lines at Zoo Miami.

His retirement takes effect on May 10.

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