Belize

Mangroves: vitally important to biodiversity

Mangroves are often called the nurseries of the sea. Many fish species find shelter between the roots as juveniles and move into the open ocean as adults, the trees create a safe and sheltered breeding area where birds raise their young, and for various amphibians, reptiles, and some crab species, the mangrove forms an ideal habitat.

One of the world’s most endangered habitats

Unfortunately, mangroves are severely endangered and are disappearing worldwide at an alarming rate. Mangrove forests form a natural buffer between the sea and the mainland. Because of their excellent locations, mangroves are cleared to make space for shrimp farms or houses. This means that the animal habitats are shrinking and confrontations between animals and human beings are becoming increasingly frequent. The deforestation also results in increased erosion and a higher likelihood of mudflows.

That is why we protect the mangrove in Belize!

We are committed to protecting these vulnerable habitats, which is why we have been protecting a nature reserve in Belize, with a surface area of approximately about 400 square kilometres–almost more than six times the size of National Park De Hoge Veluwe–for almost thirty years. There are rangers working 24/7 to monitor the area, vulnerable species are re-introduced into nature, and lesson plans have been developed to teach Brazilian children about the project.

In this special nature area you can find:

The nature reserve we protect

Because there are so many different animal and plant species living in the area, the nature reserve we protect is a so-called biodiversity hotspot. For example, Baird’s Tapirs (which are threatened with extinction), manatees, jaguars, and many colourful tropical fish live here. Additionally, a mangrove forest, a tropical dry forest and a coral reef are located just off the coast.

Help us protect the mangrove forests in Belize

We want to continue working to protect this extraordinary nature reserve in Belize, but we cannot do it alone. Please help us preserve this small paradise in Belize! We appriciate every donation, and 100% of received donations go to nature conversation.

International Tropical Conservation Fund
TRIODOS Bank
3700 AB Zeist
IBAN: NL85 TRIO 0784 9053 39
BIC/SWIFT: TRIONL2U

You can also help by becoming a Friend of Belize. With a minimum contribution of €36 a year, you can help continue the conservation in Belize. 100% of received donations go to nature conservation and all spending is well-considered. If you want to become a Friend of Belize, send an email with your name and address to constanze@itcf.nl.

Become a friend of Belize