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Belize is an extraordinary country, with several "worlds" for
visitors to explore. The cayes (pronounced "keys") hold the
wonders of the barrier reef for scuba divers, snorkelers and
fishermen.
The mainland contains miles of jungle that feature wildlife,
rivers, caves and mountains. Belize travelers have an opportunity
to find many adventures that suit their interests, and
water-based tours and activities can easily be arranged from
mainland resorts and hotels. Here are some of Belize's natural
treasures.
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Community Baboon Sanctuary
Located 30 miles northwest of Belize City, Community Baboon
Sanctuary was founded in 1958 to protect the black howler
monkey, locally known as the "baboon". The monkey is an
endangered species found in Belize, southern Mexico, and isolated
areas of Guatemala. A visitor center at the 20-square mile
sanctuary features an educational jungle exhibit. Hiking trails
crisscross the sanctuary. Guided trail walks allow visitors to
experience monkeys up close. Canoe trips down the river to see
monkeys, birds, and other wildlife such as iguanas, crocodiles,
anteaters and turtles can be arranged at the visitor center.
Belize Zoo
Started in 1983, when Sharon Matola adopted 17 animals left
behind by a film crew, the zoo moved to its current quarters on
Mile 29 of the Western Highway in 1991. Today there are 150
birds, mammals, and reptiles, all species indigenous to Belize. The
zoo allows travelers to get memorable photos of the jaguar, tapir,
scarlet macaw and jabiru stork. Mesh and wood enclosures
resemble the animals' natural habitat. A special attraction is
watching the morning feeding.
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
(Jaguar Reserve)
The sanctuary and forest reserve is located in southern Belize, near
Dangriga, below the Maya Mountains' Cockscomb Range. About 150
square miles are set aside to protect the jaguar population, as well as
other plant and animal species. The reserve is also home to 290
species of birds. Just inside the gate is the Mayan Center, with slate
carvings, baskets and other craft items for sale.
Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
The 3,000-acre sanctuary, located 33 miles northwest of Belize
City, was established in 1984 to protect resident and migrant birds.
One of the most noted residents is the jabiru stork, the largest
flying bird in the Western Hemisphere. This sanctuary is also a
refuge for other forms of wildlife such as black howler monkeys,
crocodiles, coatimundi, turtles and iguanas.
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