Crocodile Conservation and Management in Belize, Central America

Abstract

In 2001, the Belize Forestry Department requested the assistance of Dr. Mazzotti in developing a crocodile management program. Two species of crocodiles reside in Belize, the endangered American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) and Morelet's crocodile (Crocodylus moreletti), and the development of wetland habitat is threatening these crocodiles' existence.


Very little data exists on the status and distribution of these species, especially Morelet's crocodiles residing in marsh habitats. This project seeks to develop, in collaboration with the Lamanai Field Research Center, a monitoring program for this species. Along with the monitoring program, a training program will be developed for governmental and non-governmental personnel in Belize so that the monitoring program can be maintained.