TBZ Project - Pictures with Santa

Ho Ho Ho! Back on December 6, 2009, The SUNY Cortland Belize Zoo Project hosted a fund raising event on campus. Santa was played by none other than Tom Pasquarello, faculty advisor to the student club. All student government clubs and organizations have to hold at least one fundraising event per year, and the proceeds from this event will fund the club's activities next semester.

The event was a great success with more than 100 kids of all ages turning out for a photo. Some of those kids included local elementary school children as well as college students. Even the SUNY Cortland women's basketball team showed up for a team photo with Santa! More than $175 was raised.

Pictured above with Santa are the wonderful students who make up TBZ Project on the SUNY Cortland campus, and who organized this special event. Happy Holidays!

Panama the Harpy Eagle Celebrates His 7th Birthday!

It was a special day at The Belize Zoo! Balloons and posters decorated the area where “Panama” the Harpy Eagle calls home, and some very special visitors were on hand to sing him his Happy song!

Seven years have passed since “Panama” was hatched in the country of Panama. He was to be part of the important Harpy Eagle Restoration Program, a vital project aiming to put Harpy Eagles back into the forests of Central America.

These beautiful raptors, top predators in the tropical forests, are considered to be “nearly extinct” in Central America. And this vital program seeks to re-establish their important presence.

However, when “Panama” hatched in late 2002, it was noted that his left eye was seriously

damaged from this “exit- the- egg” action! And due to this unfortunate hatch-incident, the Harpy chick was unable to be released into the wild. So, the baby eagle was given to The Belize Zoo as an “education ambassador for his species,” and his presence at the “Best Little Zoo in the World,” has been nothing short of ultra-magnificent!

Named “Panama,” to recall his birthplace, this charismatic bird-of-prey has alerted thousands to the important role his species plays in tropical forest ecology. Children call him by name, and he readily responds! Chirping and opening his massive wings, “Panama” obviously enjoys sharing time with his many visitors.

This year, the children from the local pre-school of La Democracia, arrived to the zoo ready to sing him his birthday song. They were accompanied by Mrs. Barbara Thummalapally, the wife of the USA Ambassador to Belize, Mr. Vinai Thummalapally. Affectionately called “Miss Barbara” by the pre-schoolers, she, herself a teacher, was keen to note the important role that “Panama” plays in bringing to all a greater awareness about our Belizean environment.

“Seeing “Panama” the Harpy Eagle leads to falling in love with him!” Yes, indeed! And saving his

species in the wild means that we must protect and respect these rare raptors, and work to ensure that their forest home remains in a healthy state for years to come. Happy Birthday, “Panama”!!

It's a Howlin' Success!

At The Belize Zoo, sometimes animals are received that can be rehabilitated for a life back into the wild. For instance, a few of the species TBZ has rehabilitated and set free includes Anteaters, a Jabiru stork, and a pair of Bat Falcons.

When it comes to primates, both the Spider Monkey and the Howler Monkey, TBZ is lucky to be able to work in concert with primatologist Robin Brocket. Robin heads up the Wildlife Care Center and for well over a decade or more, she has been restoring monkeys back into the forests of our country. Many times, the monkeys have been kept illegally as pets. Government officials at the Forest Department will confiscate wildlife held illegally, and then bring the animals to facilities which can properly manage these species, or in the best situation, rehabilitate them for release back into the wild.

For confiscated monkeys, anyone “in the know “ here in Belize, realizes that Robin’s expertise is to be trusted for restoring monkeys held in captivity back into a wild environment. The process begins with Robin providing native foods for the monkeys, foods which they will later seek out as they forage along in their wild habitat. Monkeys are real “troopers’!! They live in troops with a bit of a social structure. Robin has found that the success rate of a monkey introduction is far more likely if a small group is first brought together, trained to eat their favourite available browse foods, and then, released together as a compatible troop, back into the forest.

If a Spider Monkey or a Howler Monkey proves to be lacking the “primate powers” for a sound life in the wild, then, Robin works with Zoo officials to see that a smooth introduction occurs within the established "Monkey Homes" at the zoo. It is very tricky “Monkey Business.” However, both species are positioned to have brighter futures due to the complementary work established between the Wildlife Care Center and The Belize Zoo.

A very important lesson to convey, monkeys make bad pets! It is not only illegal to keep both the Spider and Howler Monkeys as pets, but having a monkey in close proximity to us, can pose serious health problems to both monkeys AND people! Hey! Best to keep them wild in the wild!!

Give a Jaguar a High Five!

He is the King of “Meet and Greet” at The Belize Zoo, and his name is “FieldMaster.” This too-gorgeous-for-words male Jaguar, weighing in at about 130 lbs, is a former “problem jaguar” and a star graduate of the zoo’s “Problem Jaguar Rehabilitation” program.

“FieldMaster” got into trouble during the year 2005. His hunting skills turned from the usual Jaguar prey of gibnut, armadillo and peccary to dogs. Dogs! “FieldMaster” was unaware that his appetite for home-dwelling potlickers was causing high stress levels in the communities along the Western Highway.

What a bold Jaguar he was! “FieldMaster” was not shy when it came to taking prey, and on repeated occasions, was found under a stilt-raised house, obviously in search of a meal.

Finally, afraid that more dogs, and perhaps other food items like free-ranging hens, would become a meal for this large cat, The Belize Zoo was requested, through the Forest Department, to set a trap. If captured, there would be an end to this worrisome situation.

Using a dog as “bait,” this big fellow was easily trapped, and then transported to the Jaguar Rehab facility at the zoo. Every Jaguar coming through the program is thoroughly examined by a vet, and his examination pointed to why he was hunting dogs, and not the usual Jaguar prey. Close examination revealed that he had worn out and missing teeth. There were shotgun pellets lodged in his body. His eyes appeared to be “off-set.” In summary, the poor guy was unable to compete effectively for necessary food. Consequently, when he was hungry, finding and taking a dog for dinner was an easy answer to his need for filling an empty jaguar-tummy!

Zoo Director and animal-trainer Sharon Matola, began working with “FieldMaster” every day for long periods of time. At first, and as expected, he expressed aggression and an “I Hate You” profile. How long did this last? Not so long at all! “FieldMaster” quickly learned that he was admired and strongly-liked by zoo staff. He no longer had to risk being shot for his odd hunting behavior. “FieldMaster” began to look forward to being hand-fed chicken dinners, and seemed to enjoy learning “tricks for treats.”

One of the tricks taught to “FieldMaster” was "Give Me a High Five!!!"

Today, zoo visitors can meet and greet the ex-dog killer, “FieldMaster,” and do something unique and ultra-special -- give this beautiful jaguar a “High Five!” He is successful in teaching all who visit that jaguars are beautiful, rare and special. Saving them for future generations is our focus. Thanks to “FieldMaster” this important objective is expressed with gusto. Jaguars Forever!!

Two Ambassadors for Climate Change

The Belize Zoo recently received a visit from our newly appointed USA Ambassador, Mr. Vinai Thummapalay. Ambassador Thummapalay has the issue of climate change high on his agenda, and realizes that the nation of Belize will be affected by this ongoing event. Recent reports show that within the upcoming decade, the profile of Belize will change significantly due to climate change.

Keeping in pace with this concern, The Belize Zoo has noted research accomplished thus far. Important studies state that in order to reduce the negative impacts of climate change, forest habitat must be kept in good and sound condition. Keep forest standing, and there will be less bad impact from climate change.

Fitting in with this vital environmental philosophy is The Belize Zoo effort aimed towards restoring the magnificent Harpy Eagle back into our remaining forests. These large raptors require expansive tracts of forest for hunting and sustaining their species. It has been found that the Harpy Eagles released into the forests of Rio Bravo in northwestern Belize, through the Belize Harpy Eagle Restoration Program, travel great distances within the forests of our nation.

They can’t survive without bush, and lots of it! Ambassador Thummapalay was thrilled to “meet and greet” The Belize Zoo Ambassador for Climate Change: “Panama” the Harpy Eagle.

The Ambassador clearly saw that the nature of a Harpy Eagle does not match a “first impression!” This is a big, big bird who certainly looks fierce, but most definitely has a gentle demeanor. “Panama” happily accepted food from his new Ambassador friend. What fun! Also, what a special time to consider that one common goal, keeping tropical forest intact, will work to benefit both people and Harpy Eagles.

If our tropical forests remain healthy and strong, ALL species will benefit! The Belize Zoo says a happy Thank You to both Ambassador Thummapalay and Ambassador “Panama” for the good work they both do in sharing these important messages with everyone.

SUNY Cortland - TBZ Project

Belize Zoo Founding Executive Director Sharon Matola recently visited SUNY Cortland as part of The Belize Zoo Project initiative. Sharon gave a campus-wide lecture on October 27, and the next evening SUNY Cortland students hosted a first birthday party for Cortland the Margay, complete with rock band performances and a giant birthday cake! To wrap things up after Sharon's visit Tom Pasquarello offered a Sandwich Seminar about the Belize Zoo Project on November 17.

The following links will take you to archived web casts of the programs recently offered at SUNY Cortland.

Sharon Matola and The Belize Zoo Project

Belize Zoo - Cortland the Margay's Birthday Party

Sandwich Seminar - The Belize Zoo Project (Tom Pasquarello)

Simply Great! Our Greater Northern Grison!

It is highly unlikely that you will ever see this active animal in the wild, but at the zoo, “Bill” and “Larry," our fun-loving Greater Northern Grisons, are adding a happy touch to all zoo visits.

Grisons are in the otter family, and they scurry around on land, similar to the way otters use water habitat, which can only be described as “extremely playful.” They have semi-webbed feet, and this gives us a clue that the Greater Grison enjoys a swim now and again. “Bill” and “Larry” sure do! A favourite activity for these two fellows is to jump into their pond when a zookeeper tosses a bit of chicken in there as an afternoon treat. Both of these “aqua-critters” can swim under water and detect food in the process. “Bill” and “Larry” are always 100 percent successful in underwater searches for their afternoon snack.

The Greater Grison also likes to burrow. At the zoo, in their enclosure, we have placed clay “tunnels,” and this sure pleases “Bill” and “Larry.” Their playful nature comes to life each day at the zoo as they have the opportunity to burrow and swim. Their home can best be described as a “Greater Grison playground!"

Not much is known about the natural history of these animals. It is said that they are found in the Savanna areas of Belize, however, nothing is ever mentioned about their affinity for water. And finding permanent water areas in the Savanna can be a challenge.

“Bill” and “Larry” came to the zoo as pups. A hunter came upon them in a nest, and made a wrong move. He took the pups and intended to keep them as pets, but then brought them to The Belize Zoo. We, of course, agreed to provide good care for the little guys.

At first, we had no idea WHAT they were, and everyone thought they were Tayras (Bushdogs). But as they developed, we quickly saw that they were Greater Grisons and we were delighted to welcome them into our Zoo family! The Greater Grisons delight all of our visitors, especially school children, who see how unique Belize truly is because of the interesting and fun animals that share our land!

Cortland Kitty is One Year Old!

From Sharon . . .

Back on August 9th our beautiful Cortland Kitty turned one year old! What does a Margay cat get for a birthday present? If you look closely, Cortland is munching away on a nice chicken foot. She loves them! A talented photographer spent time at the zoo recently, and was particularly enchanted with Cortland. Perhaps we will catch her on a calendar or greeting card one of these days. TBZ is always happy to see how our animals serve to bring the beauty of tropical wildlife into the homes and hearts of so many....Cortland Kitty is a star!!!

On October 28th, I will host a celebration of Cortland's birthday on the campus of her namesake, SUNY Cortland. The celebration will start at 8 p.m. in the Corey Union Exhibition Lounge, and will feature two bands (Tribal Revival and the SUNY Cortland Rock and Blues Ensemble), refreshments, and a birthday cake. If you are in the area please stop by and wish Cortland a belated happy birthday! If you need directions to the party or have any questions about the event contact Tom Pasquarello.

We've been busy!

TBZblog is sorry for the recent lack of posts, but we've been very busy! Sharon is preparing for the upcoming Harpy Eagle release set for 18 October, 2009, and her upcoming visit to the U.S., during which she will participate in a "big cat conference" and give presentations at SUNY Cortland, Cornell University, and Alfred University.

On the Cortland end we've been busy preparing for Sharon's visit, and will soon do a post about the schedule of events that are open to the public during her end-of-October visit. In the meantime, new readers of TBZblog might want to check out some older posts from our archives, especially the profiles of favorite Belize Zoo animals such as Junior Buddy the Jaguar, or the descriptions of the all the exciting things there are to do in Belize if you stay at TBZ's Tropical Education Center.


In case you can make it to the Harpy Eagle Release, here are the details:

¨ A MAGICAL EVENT IS PLANNED FOR SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER TO CELEBRATE THE UPCOMING “RELEASE INTO THE WILD” OF “HOPE” THE HARPY EAGLE

¨ RENOWNED MAGICIAN GRAHAM JOLLEY IS COMING TO KICK OFF THIS SPECTACULAR RELEASE!

¨ JOIN US AND SHARE THE JOY OF OUR BELIZE HARPY EAGLE RESTORATION PROGRAM’S CONSERVATION MAGIC!!!

WHEN: SUNDAY 18TH OF OCTOBER 2009
WHERE: JAGUAR PAW RESORT
TIME: 6:00 PM
FOOD AND DRINKS AND MAGIC!!!!!

¨ Sponsored by Jaguar Paw and the Belize Zoo in an effort aimed at calling attention to the issue of Climate Change.
¨ The negative impacts of Climate Change can be reduced if our forests are saved, not destroyed….AND “HOPE” THE HARPY EAGLE AND HIS SPECIES NEED HEALTHY FORESTS TO SURVIVE INTO THE FUTURE TOO!!

The Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center
P.O. Box 1787
Belize City
Belize, Central America

Bruce Barcott Wins Literary Activism Prize

Reposted from: Mediabistro.com

"Bruce Barcott Wins Literary Activism Prize
By Jason Boog on Sep 24, 2009 12:23 PM

Author Bruce Barcott has won the inaugural, bi-annual Gene E. & Adele R. Malott Prize for Recording Community Activism. Barcott will receive a $1500 prize and an additional $1,000 will be donated to support community activism.

According to the release, Langum Charitable Trust, an Alabama-based private operating foundation, gave the prize for Barcott's book, 'The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw: One Woman's Fight to Save the World's Most Beautiful Bird.' The trust also administers two other writing prizes: the David J. Langum, Sr. Prize in American Historical Fiction and the David J. Langum, Sr. Prize in American Legal History or Biography.

Here's a statement from David J. Langum, Sr., from the release: 'Barcott's book exemplifies the journalistic values which Gene and Adele Malott wanted to encourage and recognize. The book gives the reader a deeper understanding of the spirit of the activist, and the dedication it takes to fight for a cause.' "

Pat the Cat

From Sharon: Pat the Cat in his Milwaukee Zoo Exhibit

Pat the Cat, a former cattle killer in Belize is now happy at home in the Milwaukee Zoo and bringing a huge amount of attention to the plight of jaguars! This jaguar was a very successful "problem jaguar Rehab" graduate, who was then transferred to the Milwaukee Zoo where he has become part of the important captive-jaguar breeding program within USA zoos. Pat the Cat has become a "rock star" in Milwaukee! Newspaper articles and television coverage have served well our objective to bring into the international arena, the important work being done through TBZ programs on behalf of this magnificent predator.

Sharon Matola, Belize Zoo founder, reunites with Pat the Cat. His recognition of her is obvious as she visits him at his new home in Milwaukee.

young Scarlet Macaws to be in TBZ very soon!

Meet "Charlie" and "Hilario," two Scarlet Macaws who hatched right here at TBZ in mid-May. They are "people-loving parrots," and we are fixing a beautiful enclosure just for them and also, planning to have them accessible to the public. In this way, "close up and personal" experience with the birds will enhance the education impact.

albino coatis soon to be at TBZ!

Albinism is very rare in nature, and we were totally surprised to see the "normal" coloured Coati Mom taking care of her albino babies. The father is albino, and his recessive genes must be strong ones! This will be a wonderful addition to TBZ clan of critters, and provide an opportunity, too, for a bit of education to our public about the biological occurance of albinism.

Indy the Tapir now at TBZ for all to see!

Indy the Tapir entered his new life at TBZ on September 4th! What a fun day for the little guy! He immediately took to his new surroundings, and seemed pleased to meet his tapir-neighbors! Forest Department officials, Rasheda Sampson and Andre Lopez, who brought the baby Mt. Cow to TBZ in June, did the honours of opening the door of his "mobile home," so that "Indy" could trundle on in to his new home.

Indy at three months!

"Indy" the tapir comes into the main zoo!! On Thursday 3 September, Forest Department officers Rasheda Sampson and Andre Lopez, opened the door of his "travel kennel," and "Indy" became acquainted with his new quarters at the zoo. He is still being bottle-fed, along with a diet of browse and bananas. He is sure to be a "people-pleaser!"

Indy the Tapir is Growing!

Indy has lost all of his "camo markings' from his head and nose. He never refuses his formula and has astonished us all with his increasing weight gains and energetic personality. It's impossible not to be an Indy fan! We plan on introducing him into the main zoo during the first week of September..

Update on Young Scarlet Macaw Chicks

Our Scarlet Macaw chicks, as of 22 August, are now three and a half months old! This is "Charlie" and "Hilario," named after our two zookeepers who raised them from featherless nestlings to the vibrant young macaws they are right now. We provide lots of TLC to these two pretty parrots, and will be sharing them with our zoo visitors for "Close Encounter" activities.

Bye Bye Bat Falcons!

From Sharon . . .

Many times, at The Belize Zoo, if possible, we release animals, fit for a life in our forests, back into the wild. Recently, an Anteater (antsbear) received was safely introduced into a happy Anteater habitat. In the past, TBZ has released Coatis and even a Jabiru stork.

Not that long ago, two Bat Falcons were given to the zoo. Initially, it was thought that a dedicated training period would result in their being a wonderful addition to the zoo’s exciting education program. However, the nature of the Bat Falcon is that they simply must fly!

Yes, they do perch, but their “falcon profile” sees that they soar high and dive quickly after prey. Favourite food items are bats, other birds, and insects. These little birds-of-prey are found in every habitat in Belize. Bat Falcons are often recorded here around the zoo, and considering all factors involved, it was decided to release the falcons into the surrounding wild habitat.

The zoo is located in the middle of a very large tract of forest, and this same forest is becoming known as an important “Jaguar Corridor”. What does this mean for the Bat Falcons? Simply, lots of territory to establish a home, and lots of prey available for them to keep fit and happy!

And how about when it is time to nest? Since the Bat Falcon is a common species in Belize, finding a mate won’t be a difficult task. Nesting sites include tree cavities, crevices in rocks, and even building ledges. Usually two Bat Falcon chicks are hatched, and leave their nestling-nest within a month.

The release of the two young Bat Falcons went very well. Gradually, the young birds were given prey outside of their holding enclosure. It was quick and remarkable! Taking the prey in their talons, off the falcons flew! Zoo staff continued to leave prey for them on their outside feeding platforms as a gradual measure of guaranteed dinner.

However, it appears that they have taken to the wild with ease. One of the falcons returns in the afternoons, and not every afternoon. When we hear the bird call, it is a happy addition to our day here.

Watching a bird-of-prey soar and dive in the wild is always an exciting event, and we are happy to add two more “raptor wonders” into the Belizean wilds!

We are in AWE!!! It's a BABY MACAW!!!

From Sharon . . .

THE BELIZE ZOO BECAME HAPPILY OVERWHELMED IN MID-MAY WHEN THE RESIDENT SCARLET MACAWS HATCHED 3 HEALTHY BABIES!!! The parents were bred in captivity about a decade ago. From the start of their love affair, it was clear that they were clueless about the process of Macaw-Mating.

Scarlet Macaws nest high off the ground, and the loving pair was provided with a four-star nestbox. But a high-rise honeymoon suite was not to their liking. These two raucous red parrots chose, instead, to nest on the ground.

TBZ keepers were frantic at their nest choice. Possums and foxes were possible unwelcome visitors, putting the birds and their eggs, at high risk. This happened during a time of unseasonable wet weather, and a drenched nest would easily result in a “no hatch situation.” But the Big Reds insisted that it would be on-the-ground or no love nest at all for them.

We did our very best to counter-act their risky nesting regime, and our efforts worked! Mid-May was a special spring event, when three Scarlet Macaws hatched! Due to Mom and Dad not knowing how to raise young, the babies were carefully taken and put under the care of TBZ keeper staff. Every two hours they were fed a baby bird formula, and tending to the birds on “Macaw Night Watch” turned TBZ staff into first class Scarlet Macaw infant caregivers. Day by day, the featherless tiny birds gained weight, and have grown to love their zookeeper buddies.

In the wild, the nestlings will remain in the nest for 3 months. After that, Mom and Dad Macaw will urge them to fledge, and then teach them the ways of being a wild Scarlet Macaw. Breeding these rare birds in captivity is not difficult. Seeing them return to the wild is not possible, because they do not know the necessary survival strategies for a safe existence “out there.”

Our baby Scarlet Macaws will eventually be joining Mom and Dad in their home roomy enclosure. located at the entrance of The Belize Zoo. Since they have been lovingly raised by TBZ keeper staff, the young macaws will enjoy the company of all upcoming human admirers. We haven’t named them as yet! But their names will reflect how very special they are to TBZ, and to Belize!!!!

At The Zoo and Still in the Wild! Our Yellow Headed Parrot

From Sharon . . .

One of the most popular birds in Belize is our yellow-headed parrot, Amazona oratrix belizensis. The last part of this parrot's scientific name tells us something important. Our yellow-headed parrot is unique to Belize! With far more yellow on the bird's head, a distinct white eye-ring, and pale bill, the Belize yellow-headed parrot is truly special to our country.

Unlike other species of parrots in Belize, the yellow-headed parrot lives exclusively in the pine savanna habitat.. In the overall profile of our ecosystems, pine savanna makes up less than 15% of our lands. So, right from the start, the home ofr our yellow-headed parrots is limited in range. The actual status of this parrot, as noted in BIRDS OF BELIZE, is "Globally Endangered."

Yellow-headed parrots eat fruits and seeds, and are particularly fond of the craboo found growing in the pine savaana. They "hang out" in flocks, and can usually be heard before they are seen. The call of the yellow-headed parrot is unlike any of the other parrot-calls. Experienced (and not so experienced) bird-watchers can readily recognize this loud squawking.

A major threat to the yellow-headed parrot in Belize, is their being hunted for pets. So many people want a "Polly". Unfortunately, the way the hunting occurs, is that chicks are taken from the nest, and this contributes greatly to the reduction of the species population in the wild.

The yellow-headed parrot, like all members of the parrot family, live long lives. A life span of over 40 years in captivity, is not uncommon. What IS common is that these birds make noise every morning and evening, and that noise level is very loud! So, owning a "Polly" means that not only are there less in the wild (where they belong), but that your long-term "house-guest' is likely to wake you up and bring a close to your day, with its parrot screams and squawks!

It is no accident that all of the yellow-headed parrots at The Belize Zoo are former pets. Their owners grew weary of their noise as well as the responsibility of caring for the birds. So now, their "home sweet home" is The Best Little Zoo in the World! But remember, the happiest yellow-headed parrots, so rare and so special, are the "Pollys" living in the wild here in Belize.

Meet "Indy" the Baby Mountain Cow!

From Sharon . . .

“Indy” wasn’t born at the zoo, he was brought from the southern town of Independence by the Forest Department in mid-June, and has quickly won the hearts of the entire Belize Zoo staff.

Baby tapirs, or “Mountain Cows," resemble gibnuts. They are covered in stripes and spots, and for the first few weeks of their lives, truly are “gibnut-like”in appearance. Their entire baby-spotted coat takes an entire eight months to fade away. Then, they are left with a brown coat which is a suitable “overcoat” for the rest of their lives.

“Indy” should still be nursing with Mountain Cow Mom, and while we do not know the circumstances involved which led to his arrival in Independence, TBZ staff has readily taken up the important role of “Nanny” to the little fellow. He eagerly receives his bottle of milk and vitamins three times every day, and receives a visit during the evening hours, too, for his milk and banana.

The routine favoured by baby “Indy”is to be fed his bottle and then to be “belly scratched” until he rolls back and goes into “Mountain Cow nap phase” He is one very happy baby tapir!

Once “Indy” gets older, TBZ staff will introduce him to the resident tapirs in the zoo. In the wild, tapirs exist as solitary animals. If they are ever viewed as pairs, most likely it is the mother with a youngster. The young remain with their mothers for nearly two years before striking out on their own into the tropical forests.

A definite habitat requirement for all tapirs is to live near fresh water. Our National Animal not only enjoys a swim, but each day, when they feel the urge to “poop," guess what? They absolutely have to do this deed in fresh water! How does TBZ address this need for little “Indy”? In his temporary holding enclosure, there is a small pond. And yes! “Indy” is quite fond of his little pool and makes good use of it every day.

Since “Indy” receives so much care and attention, it is a sure thing that his arrival to the main zoo grounds will see him in “fine action” = meeting and greeting all zoo visitors who stop by. . .

the hicatee river turtle's plight

[ Guest post from student Linda E.]

Sharon recently e-mailed:
“I see posters going up all over Belmopan and Roaring Creek that this weekend there is to be an ‘iguana egg suck’ competition as well as the selling of hicatee for the Roaring Creek School. Reading the Wildlife laws of Belize, I notice that the hunting or molesting of any Belizean wildlife with young was strictly illegal (includes nest robbing), as was the selling of hicatee.”

SUNY Cortland is helping to save the hicatee river turtle from possible extinction. On Tuesday, April 7th from 5 to 7:30 PM a table was set up in Corey Union near the Dragon’s Court where a petition was available to sign. The petition’s intention was to pressure the Belizean government to enforce its wildlife laws and expand legislation, which will help protect endangered wildlife. More than 100 interested students, faculty and staff came out and signed the petition.

A general interest meeting for the Belize Zoo Project was held on Tuesday, April 14th, in Sperry Center. Ten enthusiastic student leaders attended to lay the groundwork for next year's efforts. They have formed a Student Government Organization and will begin work in the fall when the new academic year begins.

The hicatee (dermatemys mawii) is a Central American river turtle that is so aquatic that it spends its entire life in or on water except when it comes on shore to lay eggs (www.hickatee.com/hickatee.html). After depositing her eggs beneath a camouflage of rotting vegetation, the mother turtle returns to the river leaving the eggs to incubate and hatch.

The waterways of southern Mexico, northern Guatemala, and Belize's coastal lowlands are a natural habitat for these freshwater turtles. Belize has the highest recorded populations followed by Mexico; presently none were reported in Honduras. "The deeper and clearer the water the better, and Belize's outsized lagoons are considered by them to be prime residential areas" (www.hickatee.com/hickatee.html).

The hicatee faces extinction largely due to over hunting. The turtle is active at night and sleeps mainly during the daytime. As he floats lazily along, suddenly the hicatee is whacked by an oar and captured. The turtle is a much-prized meat and a traditional Belizean Easter meal. For these reasons, the hicatee is listed on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) red-list as a critically endangered species.

Currently limited legislation protects the hicatee in Belize: a one-month closed season, no trading of hicatee meat, and a maximum of three per person to be caught.

"TIDE (Toledo Institute for Development and Environment) is partnering with the Belize Fisheries Department, Ya’axche Conservation Trust, and local experts to draft a national recovery plan for Hicatee"

(http://www.tidebelize.org/documents/InterimreporttoSumitFoundationfinal.pdf).

Cortland Rocks

From Sharon...

Cortland the Margay has such a pleasing personality, and she really seems to enjoy listening to me play the guitar! Lately I've been been practicing to perform a song about jaguars with local pre-school children while Cortland serves as my "test audience." While I play she likes to lie on a branch, just above my guitar seat and accompanying cup of coffee, to have a close listen. One day when I got up to take her photo, she jumped down to investigate my guitar and I got this shot! Two professors at SUNY Cortland have promised to write Cortland-Kitty her own song, so keep checking in at TBZblog in the future to hear what they come up with!

BTB adopts Jr. B!

From Sharon...

On Tuesday, March 10, Mrs. Laura Esquivel and Nate from the Belize Tourist Board (BTB) arrived to at the zoo for an "official dedication" of their sponsorship of our famous "Spokes-Jaguar" Junior Buddy! They presented Junior with a beautiful sign, which we've proudly displayed near his enclosure. Laura also presented TBZ with a check which will take care of the Buddy for an entire year, and the BTB promised to continue their support for Junior in the future.

TBZ is so happy and honoured to have such a special relationship with the BTB!! Click here to see a video of Junior Buddy performing for Sharon and Laura at his dedication ceremony.

Cruisin' on the Sibun

Guest post by student Linda.....

During our visit to the Belize Zoo, our SUNY Cortland group went on a kayaking adventure down the Sibun River. Our adventure started with a half-hour bus ride that brought us to our starting point. Peter Hererra, our wonderful tour guide, would be navigating the group down the river. Each kayak held three people, so we broke up into groups that spread out the more experienced paddlers. Stanley, our bus driver, and his assistant Daniel saw us off saying they’d meet us later when we arrived at our final destination.

The weather was glorious for kayaking. The voyage was serene and peaceful. Trees, birds, large rocks and iguanas greeted us along the way. Few signs of human life were present. Peter explained that the rainy season had ended about one month earlier and how the river had almost overflowed its banks. All along the trip, he pointed out places that evidenced the height of the water.

Peter, Wendy and I paddled the lead kayak but occasionally dropped back to wait for a straggler or help out when a kayak tipped over. Luckily only one of the six kayaks overturned.
At one point, Wendy noticed some odd-looking bumps on the tree trunks. Peter replied, “Those are bats.” He told the group that they are proboscis bats, a bat which is harmless to humans. “Proboscis mostly eat insects,” he said. He added that during the daytime, this is typical behavior. The bats are known for roosting head-down in a vertical line on the undersides of tree trunks that lean over the water. A proboscis bat is well-camouflaged because of their grizzled, brownish fur and small size, making them difficult to notice against the tree bark.

The three of us paddled closer to the tree so I could take a picture of the bats. We stopped the kayak within four feet of the leaning tree where the bats were roosted. Just after snapping a couple of pictures, the colony of bats flew straight at us. I wonder if the others in the group can still hear my frightened scream!

At another location, Peter noticed some foot prints along the bank. The thick mud indicated the footsteps of a tapir that had come down to the river to bathe. We paddled the kayak closer and observed the footprints more closely. We stopped for a short swim and "mud-painting"
about halfway through our trip, then we paddled for another couple of hours and landed at our destination for a delicious picnic lunch.

Happy Birthday Junior Buddy!

From Sharon . . .
On February 25, 2009 we celebrated Junior Buddy's 2nd Birthday!!! More than 100 children were happy to share this 'big day" with our famous education jaguar. The celebration brought attention to the fact that jaguars need our protection, so that they can survive into the future.

The Belize Zoo is located SMACK in the center of Belize's "Jaguar Corridor," a string of forests that support these majestic animals.

The Democracia Gibnuts, a famous group of rock 'n rollers from our neighboring pre-school, sang Junior Buddy his very own song, and local television covered the happy occasion. Click here to listen to a grown-up version of the song.

Children received education handouts and stickers from Education Director Celso Poot, and to round out their fun day, cupcakes and fresh lime juice were served to all!

As for Junior Buddy? He seemed to love all of the attention!

Zoo volunteers get the job done!

From Sharon...

Don Griffin is a "retired guy who can do just about anything," and he recently volunteered his skills for a month at the Belize Zoo. Don is an amazing guy! Besides fixing anything that needs fixing, he is also skilled at refurbishing skeletons--and his talents in this area enhanced the zoo's "Dem Bones" exhibit at the Puma homestead. While staying at the zoo's Tropical Education Center, Don became a big fan of kayaking on the Sibun River, where he saw (among other things) otters, coatimundi, and big iguanas. He also got to see Jabiru Storks on the river, which he described as "a thrill". We at the Belize Zoo are fortunate that thousands of people like Don from all over the world donate their time, money, energy, and skills to support our work. If you'd like to support our work by becoming a member or donating to the zoo, check out the membership page of the Belize Zoo website.

SUNY Cortland meets Cortland the Margay

This is a guest post from student Linda . . .

On Wednesday, January 7th our group from SUNY Cortland got a guided tour of the Belize Zoo from its founder and director, Sharon Matola. Many of the animals hurried to the edges of their enclosures to greet Sharon and get their share of the special treats she brings them. She told us how each animal had come to live at the zoo and related other characteristics she’s noticed while working with each animal.

I am a cat lover and was really looking forward to meeting the ocelot, puma, jaguars and margays at the zoo. I was not disappointed, and I will never forget the experience of seeing these beautiful animals up close in their native habitat!

The two adult margays that are on exhibit at the zoo were sleeping as our group passed by their enclosure. The pair was curled up comfortably on a tree branch, so we only stopped briefly, but I lingered longer than the others in hopes of seeing some activity. Our group had just finished visiting the howler monkeys, and as a result the howlers were still making the loud, scary noises they are famous for. One of the margays seemed annoyed by the noise, and walked down the tree and began moving about in the pen. I tried to snap a picture but my camera wasn’t fast enough to keep up with him and he was well hidden by the foliage. I waited, hoping to sneak another peek and possibly a photo, but after a few minutes I decided I should catch up with the group.

The last stop on our tour was to see Cortland, the female margay cat born this past August. Sharon explained that Cortland is not on exhibit at the zoo; she is being reserved for purposes of photography. Sharon decided split us into two groups of eight, because she feared a large group might frighten Cortland, since she usually sees only Sharon and the zookeepers that care for her.
My long anticipated wait was about to end; Cortland would become a firsthand experience. I volunteered to be amongst the first group going in. As we entered Cortland’s pen, I hoped she would be awake. The darling was curled up on a tree branch and upon being aware of our presence, she peered back at us. It was around this time that I felt something biting my toe. This moment was important so I did my best to ignore the pain. I was no longer able ignore the almost burning sensation and looked down to see several fire ants crawling around on my left foot. My first thought was, “why now?”

While the others were “oohing” and “aahing” over Cortland’s beauty, I was dealing with a fire ant attack! As fast as I could I brushed the ants off my feet and ignored the pain. As my attention returned, I focused on Cortland and snapped some pictures of her. After a couple of minutes Cortland climbed to a higher tree branch. Her ears began to twitch. Was she listening to the group’s chatter? Was she curious or afraid? I asked Sharon. Sharon responded that she wasn’t sure; she’d not yet seen this behavior from Cortland.

Upon returning home, I decided to research Cortland’s reaction to our encounter. The information I found referred to cats in general, and stated that cats will twitch their ears whenever prey is near. Had Cortland moved to a higher branch because she viewed us as prey? It seems unlikely given how large we were compared to Cortland’s 18” frame, but according to Sharon she is one tough cat, so maybe she thought we’d make a nice value-sized meal?

Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve

Many visitors to Belize take advantage of the great variety of places to visit and plan some day-long excursions like our group did. In case you might be interested in a side trip, the following post summarizes our full-day trip to Mt. Pine Ridge and to the Green Hills Butterfly Farm.
We left the TEC at approximately 8 a.m. and took the long bus ride to a Pine Savannah reserve, Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Geographically, it was not as long in distance as one might think for a nearly 3 1/2 hour trip one way, but because the terrain was extremely rough, our bus traveled very slowly and carefully over the mostly dirt roads, over hill and dale, up the mountain.

On the way there we stopped at Moonracer Farm for a chat with Tom and Marge Gallagher and a brief hike around. If you are looking for a place to stay in this area of Belize, Tom and Marge have some great accommodations, and I encourage you to check it out!

I laughed a little when I looked up the web link for Mt. Pine Ridge, because it says it is not accessible by bus, only by car. After our trip, I can understand why they say that. Stanley did an amazing job getting us there on our big, white bus. (And we even got a flat tire, discovered just before we left to go back, and thank goodness we had a spare! Stanley and Peter changed that giant bus tire in the heat in 15 minutes flat!)



This reserve is unbelievably beautiful, and it was worth the long and bumpy trip! We enjoyed swimming in the cool and clear pools, and the students (and Matthew) slid down the natural water slides!

"Within its boundaries are the Rio Pools, a popular site for a summer picnic, where the river cascades down into a narrow cavern strewn with granite boulders. It's a great place to spend some time enjoying the deep pools and clambering around the enormous granite rocks."

[Remember to click on photos to enlarge them.]

On the way home, we made a stop at Green Hills Butterfly Farm where noted biologist Jan Meerman refreshed us on the life-cycle of the butterfly and showed us around the butterfly house, full of blue morpho butterflies, prevalent in Belize, among others.