wildlife in Belize – Belize Botanic Gardens

December 1, 2020 Judy

Wildlife in Belize Is Not Just Animals

You may find that Belize is quite different than what you may be used to. You will delight in learning about in climate, language, culture, people and even insects unique to the area. There is an amazing variety of wildlife in Belize and, hopefully, you will see some of it while you are here.

Some will be unfazed by the sudden early am chortle (ruckus) of Chachalacas (aka: bush chickens) just outside their window or ants in their deodorant stick (keep containers and zippers closed). Look for leaf cutter ants (wee-wee ants) marching in single file along a trail and disappearing into the jungle with their “leaf of the day”.

Leaf-cutter aka wee wee ants — tiny but important Wildlife in Belize, these leaf-cutter ants can wipe out a small bush in less than a day

Others may run screaming at the merest glimpse of a tarantula. (No need; they don’t bite and are deaf)

caterpillar photographed by a recent guest

Wildlife at Night

All kidding aside -there are lots of unusual looking insects and small animals to be seen around the Botanic Gardens and the extensive trail system that encompasses our 100 acre nature reserve. Book a special night tour to look for wildlife at night with dinner and a bonfire.

Most of the larger mammals that make up Wildlife in Belize are rarely seen. If you come early in the morning or just before sunset, you may spot more animals. We have had visits from Tapir, Puma, Jaguarundi, Tayra and more, even including Jaguar Tracks on our Macal River Beach; however, most of these animals are nocturnal and very shy and not likely to show themselves to us.

Making Judy Jealous

I’m not a jealous person by nature, but I will admit that when a Visitor who has been here for only a few days spots an animal that I have never seen – well that makes me jealous! After all, I’ve been here for more than 30 years.

The truth? You probably won’t see any of the big animals at Belize Botanic Gardens but they all live at the Belize Zoo. Be sure and stop there on the way to or from the Gardens if you have the time.

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