The Belize Zoo

It will be difficult to disregard the Belize zoo when visiting the country. It is such an interesting and educational attraction that some people believe it must be added to your must do list in Belize. This effort is an impressive expression of compassion and appreciation for wildlife shown by Sharon Matola the sole proprietor of the Belize Zoo. After finishing with their documentary on wildlife in Central America, the National Geographic Society along with Ms. Matola who was a crew member at the time, couldn’t figure out what to do with the wild animals they had in captivity for some time to complete their research. So, Sharon volunteered to stay and care for these animals and that’s how the Belize Zoo begun. That was way back in the early 1980s. Today the zoo has become a prominent part of the country's natural heritage and tradition. Most animals there have been injured or rescued and now have found a permanent home at the zoo under the careful watch of the staff of the zoo. So many animals could be seen very jovial and contented in their space which is separated only by chain link fences. From the shy and elusive jaguars to the elegant and photogenic spider monkeys, many beautiful species of birds including the keel bill toucan, the national bird of Belize, and even the largest predator bird found in the region , the harpy eagle - they are all on display for your viewing pleasure. Don’t expect to see an elephant or giraffe, this zoo caters only to animals found within the borders of the country. The Belize zoo keeps all the animals in their natural habitat.