2025 Environmentalist of the year

Willy Cotto, a Naturalist with the Engagement, Education, Conservation and Outreach Division (E.E.C.O.) division of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department (PROS), has always had a love for the environment. This childhood passion led him to seek that connection with nature through wildlife. From a young age, Willy began volunteering with different South Florida wildlife organizations.

“Since as early as I can remember, I’ve had the opportunity to work hands-on with wildlife,” shared Willy. “I began volunteering at various zoological facilities when I was just 13 years old. I always looked forward to spending my weekends interacting with animals under human care, especially reptiles and primates.” 
This dedication soon turned into a high school job that marked the beginning of his professional journey in environmental education and wildlife. 

Over the years, Willy has worked and been affiliated with several wildlife and conservation organizations. He started his career at Parrot Jungle in Pinecrest which led him to The DuMond Conservancy for Primates and Tropical Forests, Monkey Jungle, The Dolphin Research Center, Zoo Miami, The Zoological Society of Florida (now known as the Zoo Miami Foundation), The Falcon Bachelor Bird of Prey Center, The Marine Animal Rescue Society, The Center for the Great Apes. The American Association of Zoo Keepers and The International Marine Animal Trainer’s Association, to name a few. 

He currently works out of Bill Sadowski Park & Nature Center and also serves as Authorized Sea Turtle Personnel. At PROS, Willy has the unique opportunity to work with wildlife like sea turtles and the other animals under his care at the nature center. He enjoys sharing his passion with visitors. 

“My goal is not only to teach people about wildlife but also to help them understand how their everyday decisions impact the environment. Everything from how long you keep the water running while brushing your teeth, to the kind of candy you purchase, which may contain unsustainable palm oil, can affect our planet.” 

Willy’s work was recently recognized as he earned the Village of Palmetto Bay’s Environmentalist of the Year award. 

“Willy was honored for his significant contributions to the community’s environmental initiatives,” said Village of Palmetto Bay Mayor Karyn Cunningham. “His dedication to sustainability and active participation in local environmental programs has made a lasting impact.” 

When he’s not busy contributing to conservation efforts with PROS, Willy enjoys spending quality time with his spouse, family and pets. He loves to travel and enjoys volunteering his time with the dolphins he previously worked with at the Dolphin Research Center in the Florida Keys. 

Keep Thriving Willy!