https://belize.wcs.org RSS feeds for WCS Belize 60 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/25881/Biodiverse-Landscape-Fund-Recognized-with-UKBelize-Climate-Nature-Legacy-Award-for-Outstanding-Community-Engagement.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=25881 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25881&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/25881/Biodiverse-Landscape-Fund-Recognized-with-UKBelize-Climate-Nature-Legacy-Award-for-Outstanding-Community-Engagement.aspx The Biodiverse Landscape Fund (BLF) received the UK–Belize Outstanding Community Engagement Award, recognizing its impact in advancing community-led climate resilience and conservation across Belize. Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:09:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25881 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/25185/Firefighters-trained-in-Belizes-Maya-Forest-Corridor-to-strengthen-wildfire-response.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=25185 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25185&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/25185/Firefighters-trained-in-Belizes-Maya-Forest-Corridor-to-strengthen-wildfire-response.aspx A total of 27 rangers and technical staff participated in a specialized training on wildfire management and suppression, held in the Maya Forest Corridor of Belize. Tue, 09 Sep 2025 22:58:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25185 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/25181/Gran-Selva-Maya-Biocultural-Corridor-A-Transboundary-Alliance-for-the-Protection-of-the-Largest-Continuous-Forest-in-the-Region.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=25181 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25181&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/25181/Gran-Selva-Maya-Biocultural-Corridor-A-Transboundary-Alliance-for-the-Protection-of-the-Largest-Continuous-Forest-in-the-Region.aspx We congratulate the governments of Guatemala, Mexico, and Belize on the historic announcement to protect and restore the largest continuous forest in Mesoamerica Novelo, Claudia Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:20:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25181 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/24493/World-Tapir-Day-The-Forest-Giant.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=24493 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24493&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/24493/World-Tapir-Day-The-Forest-Giant.aspx In the most remote and untamed corners of the Mesoamerican forests, one of the oldest and most enigmatic mammals still walks the land: the Central American tapir (Tapirus bairdii), also known as “danta” or “danto” in Spanish.  Sun, 27 Apr 2025 08:43:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24493 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/24077/Impacting-Lives-in-the-Maya-Forest-Corridor.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=24077 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24077&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/24077/Impacting-Lives-in-the-Maya-Forest-Corridor.aspx These actions are part of over 200 activities, targeting 32 communities, being conducted over six years, and being funded through the UK Government’s USD $3.2 million investment in Belize under the Biodiverse Landscapes Fund to build resilience, restore and conserve the Selva Maya Forest in Belize, one of the great forests of the Mesoamerica Landscapes.   Wed, 08 Jan 2025 22:26:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24077 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/23035/World-Ranger-Day-in-Mesoamerica-Guardians-on-the-Frontline-of-Conservation.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=23035 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23035&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/23035/World-Ranger-Day-in-Mesoamerica-Guardians-on-the-Frontline-of-Conservation.aspx Text by the WCS Mesoamerica and the Caribbean team (Guatemala, Belize and Honduras-Nicaragua) Park ranger, forest ranger, ranger…these are some of the names given to those who watch over protected natural areas. Both in terrestrial and aquatic, as well as marine ecosystems, rangers often face complex situations and extreme weather conditions; cold, heat, rains, hurricanes, and floods, to name just a few.  They play a crucial role in preventing the expansion of illegal cattle ranching, land encroachments, wildlife trafficking, fires, logging, poaching, among other threats. That is why today on World Ranger Day, we share testimonies from rangers in Mesoamerica. With the support and collaboration of communities, organizations and governments, as well as innovative tools like SMART, rangers face these challenges with dedication and courage. “I love being immersed in nature and above all protecting it. It is something that captivates you and that is why I can say that I love my job.” -Luis Paguada- Moskitia ranger, Honduras.     What does it mean to be a ranger? Getting up early, staying up late, maintaining good physical condition for long and challenging patrols by foot or boat, monitoring flora and fauna, and collaborating in scientific research are some of the activities that rangers perform. Often, the effort comes with a tremendous reward: seeing a jaguar or tapir in its natural habitat, hearing the call of macaws or witnessing the nesting of sea turtles. “Working with sea turtles has been and will be an unforgettable experience. Knowing that I am among the many who protect these creatures for the future, brings me more joy than anything in this world. Let's prove that women can also be celebrated in history as rangers." -Jorleen Moody- Turtle camp team leader at Cayos Perlas Wildlife Refuge. Left: Ranger team at the Pearl Cayes Wildlife Refuge during a day of patrolling. Photo by Karen Joseph. Right: Kurt Hyde, Ronnie Martínez, Yahaira Urbina, Michael Brakeman, Derry Harry, Maya Forest Corridor Resource Guard. Photo by WCS Belize “Rangers embody the essence of our organization, serving as our eyes, muscles, claws, voices, ears, and brains. As a manager, I fully trust my team to grasp the intricate dynamics within the Maya Forest Corridor. They are indispensable in safeguarding this critical corridor within Belize's protected area system. They serve as protectors, educators, and thinkers.” -Yahaira Urbina- Maya Forest Corridor (MFC) Manager, WCS Belize “Being a ranger means a lot to me because I play an important role in conserving and protecting trees and animals for future generations.” -Kurt Hyde- Resource Guard, WCS Belize "I am a ranger because I love the outdoors. I am willing to go the extra mile with passion and pride in protecting the flora and fauna that cannot speak for itself." -Derry Harris- Resource Guard, WCS Belize A season of unprecedented droughts, fires and floods This year, we experienced probably the most extreme weather in recent history, both due to the precipitation deficit (the largest since at least 2003) and the maximum temperature records (almost 1.5 degrees C° above the recent average).   In the words of Luis Alberto Romero Tzin, who is in charge of WCS Guatemala’s Environmental Protection program in the Corona-El Morgan area and the Laguna del Tigre National Park within the greater Maya Forest, this season's fires exceeded combat capacity. “This year, despite preparation and capacity building, we faced very challenging months. The drought affected water sources and dehydrated vegetation was made an easy target for fire. Despite previous efforts to maintain firebreaks, clear access roads, organize and execute the fixed and mobile ground detection plan, in addition to aerial detection with drones and small plane overflights, this was not enough. Not only due to the adverse weather conditions, but also because most of the fires were intentionally provoked.” Left: Plot in the process of restoration in the Maya Forest. Photo by César Paz / WCS Guatemala. Right: Fire in the Yesal-San Juan sector. Photo by CONAP. As of June 30, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction of Guatemala (CONRED), estimates that the 2024 fire season resulted in a total of 471 fires in Petén, of which 68 were classified as non-forest fires, affecting a total of 120,913 hectares.  The fires also affected the livelihoods of the communities, including restoration, timber and non-timber forestry areas. Even beekeeping, an important activity for many families, has been impacted, as it is closely linked to the integrity of ecosystems. The drought reduced flowering and therefore honey production. The fires have endangered the local economy and food security. At the other end of the spectrum, after the fire season, communities celebrated the long-awaited first rains of June. With heavy rainfall, many of the roads were flooded, complicating ranger patrols, particularly in places like the Laguna del Tigre National Park... but the work must go on. Rangers in the Laguna del Tigre National Park, on a patrol day. Photo by Rony GarcíaWildlife captured with a camera trap, as part of the artificial water trough monitoring program in the Mirador-Río Azul National Park and Naachtún-Dos Lagunas Biotopo, in collaboration with WCS Guatemala, Fundación para el Ecodesarrollo y la Conservación  (FUNDAECO), CONAP, Center for Conservation Studies (CECON) and World Wildlife Fund Mesoamerica (WWF). SMART, a technological ally in the field In addition to monitoring stations and drones, SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool) is one of the most valuable tools used by rangers.  This digital application allows rangers to efficiently collect, store and analyze data. It also facilitates the monitoring of daily activities, such as the location of animals, detection of threats and the success of conservation strategies. By using SMART, rangers can document and report these events in almost real time, which significantly improves response capacity and decision-making based on concrete data. SMART also allows the creation of detailed maps that show patterns and trends over time, helping to identify critical areas that require priority attention. Through this application, strategic planning, optimization of frequently scarce resources, and collaboration are promoted, since the information collected can be easily shared with other conservation organizations and government authorities.  For Bianca Padilla, SMART training specialist for the binational WCS Honduras-Nicaragua program, “SMART has come to support the work of rangers, streamline the response to adverse events and demonstrate that despite the pressures of human activity and climate change on natural resources, the presence of many species of flora and fauna can still be observed. The rangers have expressed that they are happy with the use of SMART as a field data collection tool.” Currently, the use of SMART has been extended to groups of rangers in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Cuba, Jamaica and the Bahamas. Frontline Environmental Defenders Program In this scenario, WCS has started the development of the Frontline Environmental Defenders Program, whose objective will be to protect the biodiversity of Mesoamerica, supporting those who risk their lives to conserve ecosystems.  This program will strengthen the effectiveness of protected areas through a holistic and inclusive approach that promotes coordination and collaboration. Through training, improved security and the use of advanced technologies, the program will provide practical support to both protected area staff and community conservation leaders, ensuring the preservation of this valuable natural and cultural heritage for future generations. “Resource rangers are heroes who perform an invaluable service, not only for the environment, but for humanity. We must recognize their great work, and do everything possible to support them and ensure decent working conditions.” -Julio Maaz- Coordinator of the WCS Frontline Environmental Defenders Program in Mesoamerica and SMART training specialist. A sustainable future thanks to rangers On this World Ranger Day, from WCS Mesoamerica and the Caribbean, we thank all the defenders who are an inspiration to everyone who works to conserve nature.    We Stand for Wildlife Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:57:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23035 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22974/Biodiverse-Landscapes-Fund-Launches-in-Belize.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22974 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22974&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22974/Biodiverse-Landscapes-Fund-Launches-in-Belize.aspx On 18th July, the UK Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change, through the Belize Forest Department and partner organisations, celebrated the in-country launch of the project “Resilient and Biodiverse Landscapes of Northern Mesoamerica” funded through the Biodiverse Landscape Fund.  Thu, 18 Jul 2024 17:11:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22974 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22893/New-National-Women-in-Fisheries-Association-of-Belize-Formed.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22893 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22893&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22893/New-National-Women-in-Fisheries-Association-of-Belize-Formed.aspx Close to seventy women gathered from various coastal communities in Belize at Hopkins Village for the 7th Women in Fisheries Forum (WIFF), which was held under the theme, "Leave No One Behind in Building an Enabling Environment for Our Small-Scale Artisanal Fisheries." The annual forum is designed to bring recognition to the varied roles women play in Belize’s small-scale fisheries sector and to provide a space for women to voice the challenges they face and opportunities they would like to pursue. Fri, 21 Jun 2024 17:13:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22893 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22907/National-Women-in-Fisheries-Association-established.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22907 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22907&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22907/National-Women-in-Fisheries-Association-established.aspx by Kristen Ku (Amandala Newspaper) BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 20, 2024 - After eight years of dedicated efforts, Belize has officially established a National Women in Fisheries Association on Tuesday, June 18. This achievement comes as seven women have been elected to serve on the executive body, including a president. “The whole idea started in that women wanted this space for them to be able to share their concerns and their issues regarding a sector that they’re not fully recognized in as being an active participant,” Ralna Lamb-Lewis, the Assistant Country Director – Marine at the Wildlife Conservation Society told Amandala. Read full article: CLICK HERE  Fri, 21 Jun 2024 16:24:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22907 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22908/Time-For-Fisher-Women-To-Step-Up.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22908 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22908&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22908/Time-For-Fisher-Women-To-Step-Up.aspx by (7 News Belize)  Thurs. June 20, 2024 - A Women in Fisheries Forum in Hopkins village earlier this week brought together up to 60 different women from various fishing communities across the country. And they have now formed an association with the help of the Wildlife Conservation Society. The two day forum that took place on the 17th and 18th of June focused on their concerns as fisherwomen and value added producers. We spoke to the coordinator today: Ralna Lamb Lewis, Assistant country director, WCS "So this year we had the seventh forum and the focus this year was to form the national women in fisheries association we've been having it for six years so far well this being the seventh one and at the last forum we had the women who were focused on us forming an association right because over the past years we've been meeting for them to discuss whatever issues they've been facing how they want to move the sector forward what type of interventions are they proposing, but they've decided that in order for them to really have impactful change on the sector to be apart of the management decisions it's time for them to form an association." READ FULL STORY Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:54:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22908 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22380/International-Tapir-Day-The-jungle-gardener.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22380 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22380&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22380/International-Tapir-Day-The-jungle-gardener.aspx There are four species of tapir in the world and Central America is home to the Tapirus bairdii species, considered a symbol of the jungle and fertility, present in myths and legends of various indigenous communities. This April 27th, we celebrate their presence in the Great Forests of Mesoamerica, as they play a crucial role in seed dispersal, thus contributing to the regeneration of tropical forests where they inhabit. Their distribution spans southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, northwestern Colombia (Chocó and Darién) and historically in El Salvador. (Source: IUCN) Tapir captured in the Mayan Biosphere Reserve by the biological research department of WCS Guatemala. Threats Despite its importance, the tapir faces various threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation and forest fragmentation, as well as poaching. Recent data of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reveal that three of the four tapir species are classified as "vulnerable" or "endangered." The Central American tapir (Tapirus bairdii) is listed as "endangered", while the Amazonian tapir (Tapirus terrestris) and the malaysian tapir (Tapirus indicus) are classified as "vulnerable". It is essential to take concrete measures to protect this species. This includes actions such as the conservation and restoration of their natural habitat, as well as the creation of biological corridors that facilitate their movement and promote connectivity between different populations. These initiatives not only benefit the species in question, but also contribute to the maintenance of biodiversity and ecological balance in the ecosystem in general. Here are 7 fascinating facts about the tapir: Impressive size and weight: Central American tapirs are the largest terrestrial mammals in Central America, weighing up to 300 kg and measuring around 2 meters in length. Prolonged gestation: Females have a long gestation period that lasts around 13 months. Prehensile noses: They have a characteristic long and flexible nose which allows them to manipulate leaves and fruits. Aquatic habitat: Unlike other tapirs, the Central American tapir is an excellent swimmer and often immerses in rivers and lagoons to find food and cool off. They are semi-aquatic creatures and can stay underwater for extended periods. Solitary behavior: They are generally solitary and nocturnal animals, although they can sometimes be seen in small family groups. They prefer the tranquility of dense forests and are usually shy and elusive in the presence of humans. Peculiar coloration: Their fur is dark brown or black, with some variations in tones and patterns among individuals. Some have white or gray spots on the face and throat, which can help camouflage in their environment. Key species: They are considered a key species in tropical ecosystems, as they play a crucial role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration by consuming fruits and depositing seeds in different places through their feces. On this International Tapir Day, let’s remember our shared responsibility to protect this unique species. Happy International Tapir Day! We Stand for Wildlife Sat, 27 Apr 2024 20:28:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22380 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22184/Press-Release--NGOs-and-government-representatives-invited-to-training-on-Nature-based-Solutions-for-Adaptation.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22184 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22184&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22184/Press-Release--NGOs-and-government-representatives-invited-to-training-on-Nature-based-Solutions-for-Adaptation.aspx Design effective nature-based solutions for adaptation informed by climate risk assessment. Identify effective nature-based solutions and how they support adaptation to climate change. Monitor and evaluate the benefits of nature-based solutions for adaptation. Belize City (March 12, 2024)    Several representatives from government and non-government organizations will participate in a training titled ‘Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Adaptation: Working with Nature to Adapt to a Changing Climate’ to be held March 18-20 at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel Tapir Room in Belize City. The training has been developed as part of the Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative and will be hosted by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Belize. As key collaborators on NbS for adaptation activities in marine and terrestrial protected areas, IISD and WCS Belize have invited partners and staff to attend the training to build on their knowledge and practical skills regarding NbS for adaptation. This will help to ensure the successful implementation of the CAPA initiative. Through a series of presentations, interactive activities, and plenary discussions, participants will discover approaches they can take to ensure that the design and implementation of NbS for adaptation activities are nature-positive, gender-responsive and socially inclusive, and conflict-sensitive. Country Director for WCS Belize, Nicole Auil Gomez noted that “In the face of climate change, harnessing the power of nature-based solutions is not just an option; it’s our imperative. We shall together explore innovative strategies for climate adaptation for protected areas supporting underrepresented groups women and youth.” The training aims to provide a general overview of effective NbS for adaptation. Participants will learn about and discuss:  What are effective NbS and how they support adaptation to climate change;  How to design NbS for adaptation informed by a climate risk assessment;  What the role of protected areas is in climate change adaptation;  How to select and design NbS for adaptation that are gender-responsive and socially inclusive, and improve the adaptive capacity of underrepresented groups;  What conflict-sensitive NbS for adaptation are; and, How to monitor and evaluate all benefits of NbS for adaptation.  The event will bring together representatives from WCS Belize, Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve, South Water Caye, the Maya Forest Corridor, and the national government, all of whom play important roles in informing CAPA’s activities in Belize. It will end on Wednesday March 20th at 12:30 pm with the presentation of certificates of completion. The Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative is a three-year project aimed at using nature-based solutions to strengthen climate resilience and protect biodiversity in and around protected areas in the Kavango-Zambezi and Greater Virunga landscapes in sub-Saharan Africa, and in Belize and Fiji. The CAPA Initiative is being implemented by the International Institute for Sustainable Development in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society and the World Wide Fund for Nature, with funding support from Global Affairs Canada. Wildlife Conservation Society saves wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature. To achieve our mission, WCS, based at the Bronx Zoo, harnesses the power of its Global Conservation Program in nearly 60 nations and in all the world’s oceans and its five wildlife parks in New York City, visited by 4 million people annually. WCS combines its expertise in the field, zoos and aquarium to achieve its conservation mission. Visit: newsroom.wcs.org Follow: @WCSNewsroom. For more information: 347-840-1242. Visit us online at: Website: https://www. belize.wcs.org; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WCSBelize/; X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/WCSBelize/followers; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wcsbelize; TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wcs_belize LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/wcs-belize CAPA website: https://www.iisd.org/projects/climate-adaptation-and-protected-areas-initiative Mon, 18 Mar 2024 14:27:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22184 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22071/PRESS-RELEASE--Over-50-Experts-Convene-in-Belize-for-Global-Shark-Conservation-Meeting.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22071 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22071&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22071/PRESS-RELEASE--Over-50-Experts-Convene-in-Belize-for-Global-Shark-Conservation-Meeting.aspx Review of new tools and initiatives to effectively improve shark conservation. Develop linked programs of marine conservation work and learn how to better integrate them with WCS’s conservation priorities to advance shark conservation. See and learn from the work to conserve the reefs and sharks at Glover’s Reef Research Station The need to act fast- with sharks now one of the most threatened groups of animals on the planet Placencia Village, Stann Creek District (February 26, 2024)    Over fifty marine conservation experts from around the globe, including many from across Mesoamerica, are convening in Belize from February 26 to March 1, 2024. They will look at how a range of tools, internal and external partners, and new or ongoing initiatives can allow them to better implement shark conservation measures and increase the speed of action to protect these ocean predators that are disappearing around the world due to overfishing. Despite having a 10-year shark strategy and having a kick-off meeting to start its implementation two years ago, the experts are concerned about recent research that indicates coastal mortality of sharks is increasing in many locations and is still deeply unsustainable given how slowly sharks grow and recover from human impacts on their populations. The 5-day meeting, being held at Umaya Resort in Placencia, will highlight several topics. Among them are: The current scope of work of WCS country programs and how they are implementing the WCS 2030 shark strategy. How we develop the best science to inform our shark, and wider marine conservation programs of work. WCS’S counter wildlife trafficking work and how that can assist shark conservation efforts now that the entire shark fin trade is listed on the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) WCS’s Blue Ways 30X30 approach to marine protected areas and how sharks can benefit. Review of tools to effectively/more rapidly progress shark conservation. Best approaches to policy development, and how WCS and our partners can help in bringing government departments together to prioritize shark conservation action. During a field trip to Glover’s Reef Research Station, scheduled for February 28, Belize government officials will listen to details on how WCS’s work at Glover’s in Belize impacts sharks and wider ocean health in Belize; as well as how the work at Glovers can help develop measures to assist in the implementation of WCS’s global shark conservation strategy. Based on the week’s discussions, the group, being led by Luke Warwick, WCS’s Director, Shark, and Ray Conservation, says they plan to revisit the WCS shark strategy, look at how new tools and research can be used to refine it, and from a week of collaboration and exchange, and viewing shark conservation on the water in Belize – forge new linkages to save these ancient predators from extinction. READ MORE:  ONLINE ARTICLES - SHARK CONFERENCE: Breaking Belize News - Wildlife Conservation Society commends Belize for protection of shark and ray population; calls for updating global strategy to protect sea predators The Amandala Press - WCS hosts shark conservation conference in Belize The San Pedro Sun - WCS invites media to interview experts attending the Global Shark Conservation Conference BNN Breaking News - Belize's Blueprint for Global Shark Conservation: WCS's Successful Strategies Illuminate Path Forward Wildlife Conservation Society saves wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature. To achieve our mission, WCS, based at the Bronx Zoo, harnesses the power of its Global Conservation Program in nearly 60 nations and in all the world’s oceans and its five wildlife parks in New York City, visited by 4 million people annually. WCS combines its expertise in the field, zoos and aquarium to achieve its conservation mission. Visit: newsroom.wcs.org newsroom.wcs.orgFollow: @WCSNewsroom. For more information:  347-840-1242.347-840-1242 For more local information, Contact: Deseree Arzu (501-223-3271; darzu@wcs.org) Visit us online at: Website: https://www. belize.wcs.org; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WCSBelize/; X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/WCSBelize/followers; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wcsbelize; TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wcs_belize LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/wcs-belize   Mon, 26 Feb 2024 02:02:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22071 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22070/International-Day-of-Women-and-Girls-in-Science.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=22070 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=22070&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/22070/International-Day-of-Women-and-Girls-in-Science.aspx On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we highlight the work of Anna, Francis, Sofía, and Yamira from the Mesoamerica and Caribbean program of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). Their sensitivity and passion exemplify a commitment to nature, communities, and wildlife. At WCS, we take pride in having a strong team of women in the field of science. Get to know them! Yamira Fuentes / WCS Belize “I am a Natural Resources Manager and researcher, I am currently pursuing my Master's Degree in Project Management. In the last 7 years I have been working as the Technical Assistant, Terrestrial for WCS Belize, where much of my focus had been on capacity building with our stakeholders, training and implementation of SMART and my special interest-research on the Critically Endangered Central American Turtle (Hicatee/Tortuga Blanca). I have recently transitioned to Technical Coordinator for Counter Wildlife Trafficking in the Belize program.  In this capacity I work with our regional programs to continue to foster WCS relationships with our government partners, non-governmental organizations and communities to tackle the issues, build capacity and develop strategies on Illegal Wildlife Trade for Belize. In addition, WCS research on the Central American River Turtle in the Belize Maya Forest Corridor. My goal is to continue working with our partners and stakeholders to ensure the conservation and protection of our  natural resources, inspire young women to take an active role in the field and be a role model for my daughter to appreciate our natural resources.” Anna Lello-Smith / WCS Mesoamérica y el Caribe “I support and advance WCS Mesoamerica & Western Caribbean’s bird-based research and conservation programs, which include single species conservation, like our work to protect the threatened Mesoamerican subspecies of the Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao cyanoptera),  as well as protection and restoration of vulnerable tropical forest and coastal habitats to conserve entire communities of forest-dependent birds and declining shorebirds. We build in-region capacity for bird research and conservation, work with rural and Indigenous communities to restore key bird habitat, and collaborate with partners across the Americas to protect shared migratory birds that depend on our focal landscapes during their non-breeding season.” Francis Lean / WCS Honduras-Nicaragua “I am an Environmental Sciences Engineer with a master's degree in urban environmental management and I currently serve as the Binational Marine Coordinator at WCS. My work focuses on leading the marine conservation program in Honduras and Nicaragua, through the development and implementation of strategies adapted to the priorities of each country, and collaborating closely with indigenous communities, local organizations, and governments. Our focus is to strengthen marine protection and conservation, through effective participation of local communities and research. My goal is to contribute to the protection and conservation of marine ecosystems, ensuring a sustainable future for communities and biodiversity in the region.” Sofía Rosales / WCS Guatemala "I am a Guatemalan biologist with a master's degree in wildlife management and conservation, currently playing the role of Guatemala programme officer at WCS. I am part of the management team, acting as an essential liaison between the general management of the country programme and the different technical departments of WCS. My work involves coordinating processes for the development and implementation of activities in various projects, ranging from wildlife monitoring, landscape restoration to control and protection, as well as combating wildlife trafficking, among other aspects. In addition, my responsibility includes ensuring that reports accurately reflect the quality of field work, contributing significantly to the protection and preservation of the rich biodiversity present in Guatemala."   Sun, 11 Feb 2024 01:54:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:22070 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21927/Mahogany-Heights-Village-Council-and-WCS-Belize-Sign-Community-Conservation-Agreement.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21927 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21927&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21927/Mahogany-Heights-Village-Council-and-WCS-Belize-Sign-Community-Conservation-Agreement.aspx January 4, 2024    WCS Belize and Mahogany Heights Village Council officially joined forces by signing a community conservation agreement, which marks a significant step towards community development and the preservation of Belize's natural resources.     The agreement signals our support for sustainable initiatives that will see educational enhancement with installation of ceiling fans in the primary school and nutrition improvement through building of a new vegetable and fruit tropical greenhouse for the community feeding program.     This will benefit over 45 primary school students. WCS is also passionate about fostering a clean, environmentally friendly community with our bimonthly "keep your yard clean" campaign.     The Village Council is equally committed as it plans to focus on building climate change resilience with the establishment of a community fire brigade. Chairman, Jermaine Sanchez expressed that, “The fact that this project involves youth, and the elderly is testament on the positive impact we anticipate it will have. Our community welcomes partnerships especially with organizations like WCS who is vested in conservation.”    This initiative, which is supported by the Overbrook project, is crucial in addressing major human health concerns caused by wildfires in the area.  Together, we're making a positive impact with Mahogany Heights!    Follow us on our social media pages to see the progress on this community collaborative initiative.   Fri, 19 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21927 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21897/Preparing-for-the-imminent-El-Nino.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21897 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21897&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21897/Preparing-for-the-imminent-El-Nino.aspx Due to an unprecedented El Niño event combined with the impacts of climate change, the planet is experiencing never before seen climate anomalies, with global air and sea surface temperatures pushing far higher than ever recorded. This global phenomenon is impacting some areas more severely than others, and Mesoamerica’s forests, wildlife and people are likely to be  hit especially hard during the next 6-12 months. Tue, 09 Jan 2024 16:56:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21897 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21505/The-Jaguar-in-the-biological-corridor-of-the-Forests-of-Mesoamerica-International-Jaguar-Day.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21505 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21505&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21505/The-Jaguar-in-the-biological-corridor-of-the-Forests-of-Mesoamerica-International-Jaguar-Day.aspx Jaguar populations in Mesoamerica face critical threats. The destruction of their natural habitat, driven by illegal ranching and the trafficking of jaguar parts, endangers the survival of these majestic felines. Wed, 29 Nov 2023 02:20:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21505 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21471/Wildland-fire-management-enhances-wildlife-connectivity.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21471 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21471&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21471/Wildland-fire-management-enhances-wildlife-connectivity.aspx The Maya Forest Corridor (MFC) in Belize faces a significant threat: wildfires. These fires, often triggered by human activities, can have devastating consequences for communities and biodiversity. During the 2023 fire season, which ran from February to June, a high level of fire activity was observed throughout the MFC. Our team diligently monitored this situation and identified a total of 29 individual fires that created four significant wildfire hotspots.  Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:28:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21471 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21443/Population-Growth-of-the-Hicatee-Turtle-at-Cox-Lagoon-in-the-Maya-Forest-Corridor.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21443 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21443&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21443/Population-Growth-of-the-Hicatee-Turtle-at-Cox-Lagoon-in-the-Maya-Forest-Corridor.aspx The Hicatee population Cox Lagoon in the Maya Forest Corridor in Belize continues to exist! This, even though unsustainable hunting and habitat loss have resulted in the elimination of hicatees in majority of its range, which include certain Atlantic drainages of Guatemala, southern Mexico and throughout Belize.. Fri, 27 Oct 2023 13:04:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21443 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21100/Major-Conservation-Alliance-Launches-More-Trees-Fewer-Cows-Initiative-to-safeguard-the-biological-and-cultural-diversity-of-Mesoamerica.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21100 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21100&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21100/Major-Conservation-Alliance-Launches-More-Trees-Fewer-Cows-Initiative-to-safeguard-the-biological-and-cultural-diversity-of-Mesoamerica.aspx In a joint effort to safeguard the biological and cultural diversity of the Mesoamerican region, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Re:wild, and the Mesoamerican Alliance of Peoples and Forests (AMPB) announced the "More Trees, Fewer Cows" initiative during Climate Week New York. This unprecedented alliance aims to raise awareness and take strong action against illegal cattle ranching activities in Indigenous territories and protected areas. Wed, 20 Sep 2023 12:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21100 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21028/Agricultural-burns-wildfires-and-air-quality-in-Mesoamerica-International-Day-of-Clean-Air-for-blue-skies.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21028 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21028&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21028/Agricultural-burns-wildfires-and-air-quality-in-Mesoamerica-International-Day-of-Clean-Air-for-blue-skies.aspx In the context of the International Clean Air Day for blue skies, whose theme this year is "Together for Clean Air," it is crucial to recognize how climatological phenomena like El Niño can exacerbate the issue of forest fires in Mesoamerica and their effects on the 5 Great Forests. Thu, 07 Sep 2023 20:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21028 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21213/News-from-CITES-CoP19-WCS-Investigations-of-Online-Trade-in-Jaguar-Parts-Show-Threat-is-Widespread.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21213 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21213&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21213/News-from-CITES-CoP19-WCS-Investigations-of-Online-Trade-in-Jaguar-Parts-Show-Threat-is-Widespread.aspx Study across 31 openly accessible online platforms in seven languages detected 230 posts with possible jaguar parts for sale 71 posts were accompanied by images that were positively identified as jaguar 15 different types of jaguar parts were identified, including teeth, skins and claws 98.6 percent of all posts accompanied by verified jaguar parts were in Spanish, Chinese, and Portuguese 64 posts were assessed to be linked to a location, and of at least nine countries, the most prolific countries were Brazil, Mexico, and Bolivia Teeth were the most detected body part with 156 posts offering at least 367 teeth, 95 of which were verified as jaguar teeth 71 teeth were linked to a location with the top four including Mexico, China, Bolivia, and Brazil Copies of the report in English, Spanish, and Portuguese Hi Res Images             Read the study here PANAMA CITY , PANAMA |  NOVEMBER 10, 2022 - Researchers with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) announced the results of an international investigation finding that online trade of jaguar parts are openly detectable on multiple online platforms, representing an emerging and serious threat to jaguar populations across the range of this Latin American wildlife icon. The results have been published as a detailed pre-print on bioRxiv, as well as being summarized in a brief publication available in Chinese, English, Spanish, and Portuguese. The announcement comes as nations gather in Panama City, Panama from November 14-25 for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna the 19th Conference of the Parties for (CITES CoP19).   CITES CoP19 will be significant for jaguars for several reasons. Among the draft decisions anticipated to be adopted by the parties during the session is one that encourages parties to consider the jaguar a priority species in enforcement operations, measures, and controls deployed to address wildlife crime.  This study and the methods that it has developed can help implementation of that decision.  Another draft decision encourages the parties to adopt comprehensive legislation aimed at eliminating the poaching of jaguars and illegal trade in their parts and derivatives, including online sales of specimens. Implementing that decision can be facilitated by consulting the comprehensive review of national jaguar protection laws that WCS has published in the International Journal of Wildlife Law and Policy. Two separate side events on jaguar conservation will take place during CoP19.  The first one, generated by the Coordinating Committee of the Jaguar 2030 Roadmap for the Americas (that includes UNDP, UNEP, Panthera, WWF, and WCS, CITES, and the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS)), will focus on jaguars as Iconic Indicators of Biodiversity.  The second side event, organized by WCS, will present a synthesis of the threat that trade in jaguar parts represents, and the use of tools such as online investigations to combat those threats. The overall range of the jaguar (Panthera onca) has shrunk by almost 50 percent over the last century. However, a combination of protected area commitments by the governments of Latin America, along with the 1975 prohibition of trade in spotted cats by CITES, has helped lead to the recovery of some strategically significant stronghold populations across the otherwise declining range of this species.   Over the last decade, however, concerns have risen that renewed levels (or previously poorly detected levels) of illegal domestic and international trade in jaguar parts could derail the progress made in these strongholds. The study involved 23 WCS researchers working across seven different languages (Spanish, Portuguese, English, Dutch, French, Chinese, and Vietnamese) looking at 31 online platforms - including online marketplaces, video-sharing and social media sites and weblogs - using standardized search terms and methodologies. The results revealed that between 2009 and 2019 trade in jaguar parts was openly detectable and particularly concentrated on jaguar fangs. A total of 230 posts were detected with possible jaguar parts for sale across over a dozen categories of body parts. A conservative screening of images found that, at minimum, 71 posts contained images of different jaguar parts, on 12 different platforms in four languages (50.7 percent posts in Spanish, 25.4 percent Portuguese, 22.5 percent Chinese and 1.4 percent French), including a total of 125 jaguar parts. Teeth were by far the most detected body part with 156 posts offering at least 367 teeth, 95 of which were accompanied by images visually verified by experts as jaguar teeth, and Mexico (19), China (18), Bolivia (12), and Brazil (9) were the leading countries offering visually verified jaguar teeth for sale.  Jaguar skins were the second most traded parts and included posts assessed to be linked to South America. This research presents a snapshot of online jaguar trade and methods that may have utility for many species now traded online. The study took place within a longer-term project to assist law enforcement in host countries to better identify potential illegal trade online, with research findings informing hubs in Latin America for building such capacity. The lead author of the study, Dr. John Polisar, said: “Our team is pleased to share this study in the hope that it will strengthen efforts to disrupt the currently widespread illegal trade in jaguar parts. The standardized methodology that we developed has already been productively applied to document visible online trade and combat wildlife trafficking across multiple diverse taxa in the region.” In addition, the report provides another tool that management authorities in every jaguar range country can apply to combat illegal wildlife trade, and that these methods and results  complement international jaguar conservation cooperation efforts such as the 2030 Jaguar Road Map initiative and CITES in unified multi-national efforts to effectively advance jaguar conservation. WCS holds ground for jaguars in a set of globally significant strategically located large jaguar conservation landscapes that contribute to jaguar conservation range wide. Dr. Rob Wallace, Senior Conservation Scientist at WCS and one of the co-authors of the study remarked: “WCS remains committed to landscape-scale conservation, which is fundamental for naturally scarce and wide-ranging apex predators such as the jaguar. While on-the-ground conservation efforts with a plethora and diverse array of legitimate local actors in these global strongholds remains our core approach, WCS is proud to provide additional technical assistance to the governments of the region in the enormous and dynamic challenge of addressing the illegal trade in extremely vulnerable species in the region, including, and especially, the jaguar.” The online jaguar illegal trade study was primarily supported by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Wildlife Conservation Society, and broader WCS efforts to combat wildlife trafficking in Latin America are also supported by the European Union, the Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund of the Darwin Initiative from the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about WCS’s efforts at CITES CoP19: www.wcs.org/cites Study authors include: John Polisar 1,2, Charlotte Davies 3, Thais Morcatty 4,5, Mariana Da Silva 6, Song Zhang 7, Kurt Duchez 8, Julio Madrid 8, Ana Elisa Lambert 9, 10, Ana Gallegos 11, Marcela Delgado 12, Ha Nguyen 13, Robert Wallace 6, Melissa Arias 14, 15, Vincent Nijman 4, Jon Ramnarace 16, Roberta Pennell 16, Yamira Novelo 16, Damian Rumiz 17, Kathia Rivero 17, Yovana Murillo 11, Monica Nuñez Salas 18,19, Heidi E. Kretser 20,21, Adrian Reuter 22 1 Wildlife Conservation Society, Jaguar Conservation Program, Bronx, New York, USA 2 Department of Environment and Development, Zamorano Biodiversity Center, Zamorano University, Tegucigalpa, Honduras 3 Wildlife Conservation Society, Counter Wildlife Trafficking Program (Global) 4 Oxford Wildlife Trade Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom 5 RedeFauna - Rede de Pesquisa em Diversidade, Conservação e Uso da Fauna da Amazônia, Brazil  6 Wildlife Conservation Society, Bolivia Program, La Paz, Bolivia 7 Xianda College of Economics and Humanities, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 8 Wildlife Conservation Society, Guatemala Program, Flores, Guatemala 9 Wildlife Conservation Society, Latin America Illegal Wildlife Trade Program, Lima, Peru 10 School of Environment, Education, and Development, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK 11 Wildlife Conservation Society, Peru Program, Lima, Peru 12 Wildlife Conservation Society, Colombia Program, Cali, Colombia 13 Wildlife Conservation Society, Vietnam Program, Vietnam 14 WWF Amazon Coordination Unit, Quito, Ecuador 15 Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, Oxford-Martin Programme on Illegal Wildlife Trade, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom 16 Wildlife Conservation Society, Belize Program, Belize City, Belize 17 Museo de Historia Natural Noel Kempff Mercado, Santa Cruz, Bolivia 18 Universidad del Pacífico, Lima, Perú 19 Department of Geography, Environment, and Society, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA 20 Wildlife Conservation Society, Global Conservation Program, Bronx,New York, USA 21Cornell University, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Ithaca, New York, USA 22 Wildlife Conservation Society, Latin America Illegal Wildlife Trade Program, Mexico City, Mexico Thu, 10 Nov 2022 17:18:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21213 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21217/Breakthrough-Study-Shows-No-take-Marine-Reserves-Benefit-Overfished-Reefs.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21217 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21217&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21217/Breakthrough-Study-Shows-No-take-Marine-Reserves-Benefit-Overfished-Reefs.aspx Findings support global “30 by 30” goal of protecting 30 percent of the ocean by 2030 Study published in the journal Marine Policy shows a no-take marine protected area (MPA) in Kenya was able to compensate for overfishing by increasing and maintaining the growth rate of fish populations by 42% over 24 years  Study compared two common fisheries management approaches - protected area closures and fishing gear restrictions Gear restrictions provided short-term benefits to fisheries, while no-take MPAs delivered and maintained better long-term fisheries production and yields This study is further evidence of the value of no-take MPAs to achieve benefits for fish, fishers, communities, and ecosystems WCS advocates for all-ocean management to achieve sustainable fisheries, and supports the global call to protect and conserve at least 30 percent of the global ocean by 2030: wcs.org/cbd Additional photos                          Link to study © Erika Piñeros, for WCS MOMBASA , KENYA |  MAY 04, 2021 - A powerful, long-term study from WCS adds scientific backing for global calls for conserving 30 percent of the world’s ocean. The studied no-take marine protected areas (MPAs) increased the growth of fish populations by 42 percent when fishing was unsustainable in surrounding areas, achieving the  benefits of stable and high production of fish populations for fishers, while protecting threatened ecosystems. The study recorded fish catches for 24-years across a dozen fish landing sites within two counties in Kenya, which allowed scientists to evaluate the long-term impacts of two different fisheries management methods. While one county utilized a no-take MPA covering 30 percent of the fishery, the other focused on gear restrictions and prohibited the use of small-mesh nets.  The differences in outcomes for the fishers and the ecosystems were stark. Per-person daily catches rose 25 times faster near the no-take MPA than in fished areas with gear restrictions, showing that no-take MPAs were far more effective at sustaining stocks of fish than restricting destructive gear. The study’s lead author Dr. Tim McClanahan, Senior Coral Reef Scientist for WCS said “The no-take area in Mombasa occupied 30 percent of the studied fishing grounds. Fortuitously, this  is the target for protection being proposed for the oceans, which is rarely tested and based on the results of simulation models. The empirical support for the models and the conservation proposal is reassuring along with the unexpected results of  increased production of fish populations that compensated for the lost fishing area. This adds to the evidence that no-take protected areas of sufficient coverage may compensate for the lost fishing grounds, particularly when fisheries are not sustainably fished.” This new study from WCS represents the longest-ever continuous detailed fish catch record for coral reefs, and reveals patterns that took nearly 20 years to unfold due to the small annual increments of change. The time and resources it takes to complete these empirical studies has long been an impediment to testing the effectiveness of no-take MPAs on fisheries, and is also why simulation models were commonly used. Until this publication, most existing empirical studies were short-term and focused on the catch per fisher rather than the catch per area, which is a critical metric of sustainable yield estimates. Consequently, there is a compelling need to expand long-term studies to better calibrate and test fisheries production models. This study shows that MPAs where no-take rules are followed can compensate for lost fishing grounds and stocks and therefore help people highly dependent on fish for income and nutritional security that is lost when catches are unsustainable. While gear restrictions did have positive benefits for short periods of time, they did not maximize fisheries production over the long-term. Some combination of closure and gear restrictions are therefore likely needed to achieve the full benefits to both fishers and ecosystems. The study was led by WCS Senior Conservation Scientist Tim McClanahan and will appear in Volume 128 of the journal Marine Policy. The work was supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, The Tiffany & Co. Foundation, and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. ### Tue, 04 May 2021 17:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21217 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21186/WCS-Congratulates-Government-of-Belize-On-Newly-Expanded-Sapodilla-Cayes-Marine-Reserve.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21186 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21186&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21186/WCS-Congratulates-Government-of-Belize-On-Newly-Expanded-Sapodilla-Cayes-Marine-Reserve.aspx A Nassau grouper. CREDIT: A. Tewfik/WCS. BELIZE CITY , BELIZE |  JULY 31, 2020 - The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) congratulates the Government of Belize for legislating the expansion of its southernmost marine protected area. The newly expanded Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve now totals an area covering 321,623.5 acres (more than 500 square miles, or 1,301.6 square kilometers). In addition to the existing zones, the expansion includes a strictly protected area (conservation zone IV) in Belize’s deep sea, totaling 228, 958 acres (more than 350 square miles, or 926.6 square kilometers). This decision means that Belize has now expanded its area of marine protection into the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone. Given its close proximity to neighboring countries and the threat of transboundary fishing, this declaration allows for the protection of an extensive coral reef complex known as the Corona Reef, located at the southwestern terminus of the Cayman Trench. Preliminary studies conducted suggest that the site includes a vast area of healthy and resilient coral reefs and serves as an important multi-species spawning aggregation site for commercially important reef species including several members of the grouper, snapper and jack families.   In signing the declaration yesterday, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, and Sustainable Development, Doctor Omar Figueroa said, “I am honored to sign the statutory instrument that enshrines protected status upon this ecologically important marine system. Our country continues to be a global leader in our efforts to protect our natural systems, both terrestrial and marine.” In welcoming this major announcement, Fisheries Administrator, Beverly Wade said “Belize has one of the most extensive network of marine protected areas which is central to safeguarding the biodiversity and ecosystems of the Belize Barrier Reef complex and by extension the Mesoamerican Reef system. This expansion to the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve further adds to Belize’s commitment for the conservation of its reef system, a national and global heritage, to ensure its long term viability and contribution to livelihoods and national economy.” WCS’s Country Director, Nicole Auil Gomez said: “We have been working with Fisheries and a group of stakeholders in the Replenishment Zones Expansion Steering Committee, and today we are excited to see the Government of Belize legislate the expansion of the Sapodilla Cayes site. This is one of the eight marine reserves that Cabinet approved for expansion, and its uniqueness is its coral system and its geography as the only one within our EEZ. WCS greatly anticipates the signing of the remaining sites, providing for future biodiversity and fishery stocks spillover benefits.” The expansion of Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve stems from a proposal approved by the Government of Belize in April 2019 for the national expansion of marine protected areas (MPAs) in the country’s territorial waters. The national commitment to the full expansion of MPAs across Belize reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of the long-term sustainability of Belize’s marine resources and fishing and tourism industries, particularly as the country is faced with the impacts of climate change. WCS also urges the government to work towards the completion of the national expansion of replenishment zones in Belize’s offshore area.  Potential replenishment zones were identified through an extensive scientific process led by technical experts of the Fisheries Department, local, and international scientific partners, including the Wildlife Conservation Society and The Nature Conservancy, and were validated and supported by stakeholders via extensive consultations. A full implementation of replenishment zones would enable Belize to satisfy its international commitments under the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Guidelines for Small-Scale Fisheries, the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES), and the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. WCS’s efforts expanding MPAs in Belize were generously supported by the Oak Foundation, Oceans 5, an international funders collaborative that includes Bloomberg Philanthropies, The Summit Foundation, The Tiffany & Co. Foundation, and the WCS MPA Fund, made possible through critical support from the Waitt Foundation and other donors. Tue, 21 Jul 2020 20:42:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21186 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21204/A-Jaguar-Nicknamed-Short-Tail-Becomes-Living-Symbol-of-Transboundary-Conservation.aspx#Comments 0 https://belize.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=17149&ModuleID=40060&ArticleID=21204 https://belize.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=21204&PortalID=177&TabID=17149 https://belize.wcs.org/en-us/News/ID/21204/A-Jaguar-Nicknamed-Short-Tail-Becomes-Living-Symbol-of-Transboundary-Conservation.aspx Scientists used remote cameras to photograph unusual jaguar in both Belize and Guatemala First known documentation of a jaguar crossing between these two countries Otherwise healthy jaguar is missing part of its tail from unknown injury Finding highlights the importance of securing critical forests on at-risk private properties at the Belize-Guatemala border Download copies of the study, additional images and figures CREDIT: Marcella Kelly PETÉN , GUATEMALA  |  JULY 07, 2020 - A team of WCS scientists have documented an unusual jaguar missing most of its tail crossing the border between Belize and Guatemala – the first confirmed transboundary crossing of a jaguar between the two countries. The team published their observation in a short communication in the journal CATnews – the newsletter of the Cat Specialist Group, a component of the Species Survival Commission SSC of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The adult male jaguar was first photographed at Hill Bank in the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area in Belize in 2009. At that time, the cat had a complete and normal tail. When it was photographed again on 5 May 2011, and identified by its spot pattern, most of the tail was missing for unknown reasons. Then in Guatemala in 2013, the jaguar was recorded in camera trap surveys deployed in the community forest concessions of La Union and Rio Chanchich by WCS’s Rony García-Anleu and his field team. It appears that he then returned to Belize where he was last photographed in 2014. But it wasn’t until 2018, at a workshop organized by the German Technical Cooperation (GIZ, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH) on monitoring of biodiversity and climate change in the tri-national Mexico-Guatemala-Belize Maya Forest, that researchers working in Belize and Guatemala realized that the same jaguar – now nicknamed “Short-Tail” – had been photo-captured in both countries. Said the paper’s lead author, Rony García-Anleu of WCS’s Guatemala Program: “We were surprised and delighted when we saw that ‘Short-Tail’ was photographed by other researchers and was crossing the border between Guatemala and Belize. This highlights the importance and potential for collaborative work between Belize and Guatemala and across the Maya Forest region.” WCS and partners are working to secure key parcels in Belize's portion of the Maya Forest – the Maya Forest Corridor and the Northwest properties of Yalbac and Laguna Seca.  These lands are critical to the larger tri-national forest’s connectivity for jaguars and other wildlife. Transboundary jaguars have been reported in other areas of the jaguar distribution range, including between Argentina and Brazil, and along Paraguay’s borders with both Bolivia and Brazil. In 2012–2013 researchers reported that two jaguars fitted with satellite global positioning system collars repeatedly crossed the Usumacinta River, a natural border shared by Guatemala and Mexico, at the far end of the same forest where short-tail was recorded. Although transboundary jaguar movements are hard to observe since they take place in some of Latin America’s most remote forests, at least 26 of the most significant jaguar populations range wide are transboundary. Recognizing the importance of these areas, jaguars were listed in Appendices I and II of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) in February 2020, emphasizing the urgency of conservation in transboundary areas. Eleven jaguar range countries are signatories to CMS. In addition, to date 14 countries have endorsed the vision of the range-wide 2030 Jaguar Conservation Road Map, which also emphasizes transboundary conservation. The Maya Forest is one of Mesoamerica's 5 Great Forests, spanning from Mexico to Colombia, collectively covering an area three times the size of Switzerland. The 5 Great Forests are all transboundary and represent Mesoamerica’s most critical bastions for jaguars and other wildlife, and provide services such as carbon sequestration, clean water, and food security to five million people. WCS is part of an alliance of countries, NGOs, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities committed to protecting these remaining areas. Tue, 07 Jul 2020 16:28:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:21204