Newsletters - The Belize Zoo

Newsletters

Wetlands Exhibit Officially Reopened

Friday, the 23rd of September, was truly a milestone at the Zoo. After months of working to restore our Hurricane Richard battered wetlands exhibit, the happy day for re-opening this area of the zoo, arrived. Our Jabiru storks are no longer living in small holding areas, they are back in a habitat so fitting for such a special bird.

A Special Honor for TBZ's Founding Director

September 2011 took on a very special meaning for the entire staff of the Belize Zoo. The 21st of September marks the 30th year of Belize’s independence. Exactly 29 years ago on this same September day, Sharon Matola arrived to our newly independent nation. She did not come to Belize to start a zoo, however. Rather, Sharon was hired to manage the wildlife collection under the care of filmmaker Richard Foster. Together, over a period of months, they developed a natural history film which beautifully depicted the wonders of Belize’s forests. Richard was then assigned to another film project in Borneo, and Sharon was lift with the “retired film stars.”

September Tapir-brations at the Zoo

Newly added to our TBZ Tapir Squad and ready to come and meet his visitors is Tambo the Tapir! Less than 2 years old, Tambo comes to us from near the village of Los Tambos. When he was still a baby mountain cow, Tambo's mother was shot.

One Year Post Hurricane Richard: Look at us Now!

A year has passed since “The Best Little Zoo in the World” was devastated by Hurricane Richard. Huge trees toppled, a few animals were “wind released”, and enclosures destroyed. After our total zoo staff got over the enormous initial shock of destruction, we went to work to re-build this important institution. What a task! It quickly became evident, however, that the zoo has quite a few friends out there! People volunteered their time, hauling fallen debris out. Others donated food for the animals, and all created an atmosphere of positive energy which fueled our daily, non-stop work..

Barn Owls Rock Love FM

The Love FM Morning Show, part of Belize’s leading newscast, hosted two special visitors recently. Little Guy and Jolley, young Barn Owls who call The Belize Zoo their home, were guests on this nationwide broadcast. Zoo officials were just a tiny bit nervous about a "reality TV appearance". True, LG and Jolley have done their fair share of travels. Meeting and greeting kids in schools in Placencia and Maya Center in Southern Belize seemed to please both curious birds. But a TV studio? With bright lights and cool temperatures, strange noises and big cameras? How would the two owls react?