Belize has been able to maintain a long-standing reputation for surpassing all expectations when it comes to adventure, people, culture, cuisine, and views, but has anyone told you that the country has one of the most unique, natural, and untouched ecosystems, that is brimming with tons of wildlife, flora, and fauna.
You Better Belize it that with 145 species of mammals, 139 species of reptiles and amphibians, and approximately 500 species of birds in the country, nature lovers, bird fanatics, and animal lovers will find Belize to be a paradise waiting to explore. To help guide you around we have come up with a list of must-see animals and birds when in Belize. Majority of which can be found in the wild, at the Belize Zoo, or at animal sanctuaries that are splattered across the country.
Scarlet Macaw
Considered one of the most colorful and exotic birds in the country, the scarlet macaws are considered to be ”endangered” in Belize and are protected by law. This is due to the fact that the species known for their brilliant plumage, have been under threat due to habitat loss, wildfires, and the illegal wildlife trade. However, due to extensive conservation efforts by the Belize Audubon Society, The Belize Bird Conservancy, and Friends of Conservation and Development, the scarlet macaw species in Belize have been on the rebound. With an estimated 5,000 scarlet macaws left in the world, it is estimated that approximately 250 of those are living in Belize’s tropical rainforest.
Scarlet Macaws can be found in southern Belize, more specifically in the Chiquibul National Park, or Red Bank Village, where they breed during the months of December to March. While they would usually fly solo, spotting them in pairs is not unusual. They are considered monogamous birds with individuals remaining with one partner throughout their lives. They would usually feed on insects, bugs, snails, local seeds, and nuts.
Keel-Billed Toucan
The Keel Billed Toucan is special to Belizeans as it is the national bird of the country. It is known for its equally long beak that is dotted in colors of yellow, orange, red, green, and black. It is an omnivorous species that feeds primarily on tropical fruits, seeds insects, lizard snakes, smaller birds, and their eggs. The Keel Billed Toucan is considered to be a social bird and is rarely seen alone. They fly in small flocks of six or 12 and even share cramped living quarters made of holes in trees where they would usually roost as well. While they are mostly found in canopies of tropical, subtropical, and lowland forests, the Keel Billed Toucans can be found throughout Belize’s forest.
Jaguars
Like the Scarlet Macaws, the Jaguars are considered to be among the most exotic species in Belize’s jungle. Jaguars are one of the largest and most powerful cats in the Western Hemisphere and the third largest roaring cat in the world. They are known to traverse mangroves, savannas, and lowland where they would hunt at night and feed on peccaries, howler monkeys, deers, birds, and lizards. While Jaguars are solitary by nature they would only come together to mate. Though protected by law, the jaguar population remains under threat worldwide due to road development, farming, and forest destruction, and are hunted for their teeth and skin. One fun fact however is that Belize has one of the healthiest jaguar populations in Central America and is home to one of the only designated jaguar reserves in the world. That reserve is known as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located 20 miles outside of Dangriga Town. These exotic species can also be found at the Belize Zoo.
Baird’s Tapir
Affectionately known as the Mountain Cow, this solitary creature is another species that is close to Belizean’s hearts. It is the national animal of Belize and can be found in wet areas, mangrove forests, marshes, swamps, wet tropical rainforests, and along riverbanks ranging from Southern Mexico to northern Colombia. Considered to be one of the largest native land mammals in Central and South America, the Baird’s Tapir is a herbivore by nature, that feeds on grasses, aquatic vegetations, leaves, twigs, and fruits of low-lying shrubs. They are considered to be Agile climbers and excellent swimmers who would usually stay close to water bodies and enjoy swimming and wading, especially on hot days.
Black Howler Monkey
Known locally as ”baboons”, these loud creatures are considered to be the largest species of monkeys in Belize and are usually heard before they are seen. Scientifically they are considered to be the loudest in the animal kingdom and use their deafening howls to mark their territory. Those howls can be heard from three miles away. Howler monkeys are vegetarian by nature and feed on flowers, leaves, and fruits. The males are usually black in color while the females are blond. These magnificent creatures can be found at the Community Baboon Sanctuary, in Bermudian Landing, or at the Belize Zoo.
While there are several other creatures to spot in Belize they are too numerous to mention. But if we have managed to capture your attention or pique your interest to visit any of the wildlife sanctuaries mentioned above or even the Belize Zoo, Uncharted Jewel Belize can get you there. Whether you are coming in from the airport or you need a lift from your hotel, our experienced drivers and tour guides can snatch you up in no time. Call us today and let us worry about the driving while you focus on packing your binoculars, cameras, and sunblock.
