Yesterday, I was filmed for a series of short videos we will be sharing in celebration of the thirty-year anniversary of BFREE. In the middle of the interview, the videographer said, “I think we need to find a quieter place, it’s too noisy here.” I agreed. The sounds of Scarlet macaws, Howler monkeys, and the ripples of the crystal-clear Bladen River drowned out my voice. In many ways, that moment captured the reason why we started BFREE and why we are still here.
During filming, I was also asked, “Did you have any idea that BFREE would become so large and impactful?” I answered without hesitation, “Yes.”
Today, March 6th, marks thirty years since a small group of us crossed the Bladen River and made a base camp nearby. We set up tents, made a small open-air kitchen, and started to explore the property to determine where we would build the compound.
Although I couldn’t have known all the many discoveries, the incredible partners and supporters, the amazing people who would work here, the countless lives that would be positively impacted, and the many challenges along the way, what I did know was that BFREE was going to make a difference. We were going to be part of the solution, not the problem.
Scarlet macaws photographed from the Bruce Cullerton Memorial Observation Tower at BFREE by Roni Martinez
After thirty years of conservation action, environmental education programs, scientific research, advocacy, and innovation, I know with confidence we have done just that. We have made a difference, a positive and long lasting one; to the wildlife populations that grace this incredible piece of property and adjoining reserves, to the countless people who have lived, worked, and visited this corner of paradise. We have also made a difference to the planet, where places like BFREE are few and far between, and needed to inspire people to take action to ensure the natural world is conserved for future generations.
I feel deeply appreciative of and humbled by every single person who has played a role in this journey. Owning and managing a 1153-acre private reserve in the middle of the rainforest is not for the weak of heart. It takes personal sacrifice, deep commitment, persistence, and above all – passion. And, a lot of it. BFREE’s success has been due to all the contributions made by so many people, it’s impossible to name them all. You know who you are.
Thank you to our staff, our Board of Directors, our partners, our supporters, our visitors, and all the many people that have believed in BFREE’s mission over these past thirty years.
Happy thirtieth anniversary BFREE. Onward and upward!
In stewardship and with gratitude,
Jacob A. Marlin, Executive Director
https://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bladen-River-and-mountains-Jorge-Silva-BFREE-sm-scaled.jpg17052560Jacob Marlinhttps://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Logo-1080.pngJacob Marlin2025-03-06 20:58:392025-03-06 20:58:41Happy 30th Anniversary to BFREE!
The BFREE field station serves as an oasis optimal for artistic pursuit, retreat, and growth.
January 2023
I spent two weeks at BFREE as an undergraduate student while completing a course called Travel Writing through Bethel University. When I registered for the course I knew almost nothing about the country of Belize and certainly did not know what “travel writing” was, but the photos of serene green rainforest and promise of an off-grid experience convinced me it was worth my time. My weeks were full of trail hikes, back floats down the Bladen River, dinner conversations under bay-leaf-thatched-roof, choreographed dances to honor the Hicatee turtle, asking the staff every question I could think of, and listening intensely as they answered. These 14 days changed my life.
The writing course had two main goals: Consider how to live a fuller, richer, more generous life, and explore various forms of travel writing through reading, discussion, writing, and revision. Our writing should be spurred by our experiences, but what we wrote was up to us. While this style of travel writing could be completed anywhere, there were many aspects that made BFREE the perfect location.
My first trip to BFREE in 2023
Being off-grid benefited me in many ways, the first being that it allowed for a rich connection to form between myself and my fellow travelers, as well as with the BFREE staff. We spent so much time being genuinely interested in each other, allowing us to form life-long friendships and grow connections that provided insight into what I would write about. My writing throughout the course ranged from journalistic profiles to reflective prose, scientific research summaries to poetry. The complete immersion in nature that BFREE provided me fed my creative bones. Imagery and detail flowed out of me in this jungle oasis.
While at BFREE I grew not just as a writer, but as a person. I left more connected to the Earth and my body, and I left with new goals. I wanted to live boldly in big ways–like changing my major–and in small ways–like dancing freely in grocery stores when a good song comes on. I gained confidence and perspective that I now carry with me into every aspect of my life. So, when I was asked by professor April Vinding to serve as the Program Assistant for Travel Writing after finishing my degree, and return back to Belize with her, it was an easy yes. If those two weeks I spent at BFREE as a student could affect the way I live so drastically, I had to share that with more people.
January 2025
On January 7 I hiked the six miles back into the cove I left two years before. I memorized poems while I walked and prepared for a “homecoming” of sorts, picturing myself stepping into the kitchen and hugging the friends I thought I had no chance of ever seeing again. It was a sweet welcome back to the rainforest. I was a different person, with a new group of people, but the spirit was the same: We were there to create and grow. The students brought new perspectives I hadn’t considered, and they asked questions I hadn’t thought to ask. I was grateful for their presence, because while I hoped to teach them something during our time abroad, they taught me too.
2025 Tour of the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center
Now, after two trips to BFREE, I know with good confidence I’ll be back again.
I wrote as a student, after returning home from the study abroad trip, “I travel to find those pieces of my heart I didn’t know were missing. I’m more whole since visiting Belize, but I understand now there’s more pieces out there. More people to meet. More stories to write. More of myself to grow into.” That feels even truer now, and after witnessing students experience this same phenomenon this year, I know there’s something about BFREE that helps cultivate this feeling.
There’s something about BFREE that makes it the perfect place to embrace change and creativity.
Reading at the Observation TowerTaking a break during a forest hike with Sipriano Canti and the 2025 group
Interested in reading other writings by Molly McFadden? You can find more in her portfolio.
https://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_5417-rotated.jpg20161512Molly McFaddenhttps://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Logo-1080.pngMolly McFadden2025-02-16 19:08:172025-03-06 21:30:40Creative Courses in the Jungle
Hey there! My name is Andrew Choco, and I am from Trio, a community adjacent to BFREE. I was raised in Bella Vista Village, where my connection with nature was somewhat limited. However, after watching documentaries on Animal Planet, my interest in the natural world was sparked. These programs ignited a deep passion for wildlife conservation and inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to protecting animals. I envisioned myself rescuing injured wildlife and exploring their habitats, all while being filmed by camera crews. Over time, my passion only grew, strengthening my commitment to turning this dream into a reality.
This commitment to conservation led me to pursue an associate’s degree in Natural Resources Management, which I completed at Independence Junior College (IJC). I am now looking forward to graduating in June. This milestone has opened new doors and has brought me closer to my aspirations. Along the way, I worked various part-time jobs, including construction labor. One day, while working, I witnessed a group of workers catch a large turtle from the water. At that time, I didn’t realize it was a Hicatee, but I watched in dismay as it was captured and slaughtered. The sight of animals suffering has always been deeply distressing to me, and this event made me feel helpless, especially since I didn’t have the knowledge at the time to act or understand the significance of the species.
I quickly fell in love with Hicatee turtlesIn my role as Wildlife Fellow, I am both a student and a teacherI’m exploring my passion for photography and videography
A few weeks later, during my third semester, Mr. Leomar Longsworth informed me about a volunteer opportunity for the bi-annual health assessment of the Hicatee at BFREE. Although I had not previously heard of BFREE, I learned that my school had a close relationship with the organization and often took students there on educational trips. I decided to research BFREE’s work, particularly their efforts with the Hicatee, and felt compelled to apply for the opportunity. I recalled the experience in Hopkins and felt a strong desire to contribute to the conservation of this species.
There were many competitive applicants and only two positions available, I wasn’t accepted but I was honored to be selected as one of the top interviewees. Later that month, I visited BFREE as part of a school trip. The presentations and tours, particularly the Science and Education Fellowship program, left a lasting impression on me. I decided to pursue an internship at BFREE, with the goal of joining the fellowship program after graduation. In June 2024, after completing my internship, Ms. Heather Barrett offered me a summer fellowship position for July and mid-August. I eagerly accepted and had the opportunity to work alongside Barney Hall, who was nearing the end of his two-year term. Barney’s enthusiasm and dedication to the Hicatee further fueled my resolve to contribute to its preservation.
During my summer fellowship, I gained invaluable hands-on experience, including participation in the North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group (NAFTRG) turtle survey on BFREE’s property. I developed a deeper understanding of Belize’s turtle species and grew increasingly passionate about reptiles. This experience fundamentally changed my perspective on wildlife. Having once been afraid of snakes and frogs, I surprised my family by picking up a snake in my backyard, marveling at its beauty rather than reacting with fear. This transformation is a testament to the profound impact BFREE has had on me.
In the months following, I was offered the two-year position of Wildlife Fellow and began work part-time while completing my associate’s degree, further contributing to Hicatee conservation efforts. A standout moment for me was participating in the Hicatee Awareness Month campaign. I worked with a team of three other individuals from IJC to design and implement outreach programming for eight schools in Stann Creek and Toledo Districts.
The IJC Hicatee Awareness Month outreach team hosted a poster contest. This was the winning poster.I was pleased to present Rachel C. of Church of Christ Primary School with the award for first place.
What some might consider arduous tasks—such as hiking or driving through six miles of rough terrain during the rainy season—became experiences I cherished. They offered me the chance to immerse myself in lush forests, listen to the sounds of wildlife, and witness the beauty of nature firsthand. These moments have deepened my connection with the environment and have shaped my journey.
After completing my associate’s degree from IJC in December, I was fortunate to join the team full-time. I’m incredibly thankful for all I’ve learned at BFREE and am excited to continue growing with the organization. Through my time at BFREE, I’ve developed a deep connection with nature that I never imagined. It’s also allowed me to pursue my passion for cameras. Filming and being filmed while participating in conservation efforts has always been my dream. Now, I’ve evolved from a nature enthusiast into an aspiring photographer and videographer, eager to tell my story through my own lens.
As the current Wildlife Fellow, I’m excited for the opportunities ahead to grow and contribute to the ongoing efforts to save the Hicatee. Inspired by the paths laid out by past fellows like Jaren, Jonathan, and Barney, I aim to continue their important work and highlight the impact BFREE has had on individuals like me.
Myself, Britney Alberto, Mr. Leomar Longsworth and Sacha Caal were the Hicatee Awareness Month outreach team for IJC.
Special Thanks: I am deeply grateful for the support and guidance from my Independence Junior College family, who have been instrumental in helping me reach this point.
Recently, I participated in an exciting online training opportunity. The “Chocolate Making from the Bean Program” is a professional two-month course that began on September 27 and concluded on November 29, 2024. Participants who took the course, including me, came from various backgrounds and professions but all had a passion for chocolate! With seven years of work experience in a cacao processing facility plus fifteen months of work training at BFREE’s Cacao Discovery Center; I have always wanted to learn more about the global cocoa market. My other interests before taking the course included understanding the complex process of chocolate production and the sensory evaluation of chocolate liquor and bars. This short intensive course provided by Ecole Chocolat covers numerous topics that are timely and relevant to the Global Cacao Value Chain.
Premium chocolate bars of multiple origins were used in four different “Taste Flights” throughout the program.Chocolate bars used in tasting flight 1: Manufacturer A (Ghirardelli) and Manufacturer B (BFREE Chocolate Lab) Comparison of sweetness on 60%-90% dark chocolate bars.
What I enjoyed most about this program is the wealth of information it provides to students. It has exceeded my expectations, and greatly enhanced my knowledge on various topics including cacao bean sourcing, chocolate making, and entrepreneurship. The fun part was acquiring and tasting multiple chocolate bars of different origins from multiple chocolate makers. Throughout the course, I did several taste tests called “Tasting Flights” and my favorite bars were Fruition’s ‘Dominican Oko-Caribe 68% Dark Chocolate’, Fu Wan’s ‘70% Dark Chocolate’, Ritual’s ‘100% Dark Chocolate’ and Luis Abram’s ‘70% Rio Purus Dark chocolate’. These four bars were my top favorites based on their flavor profiles, physical aesthetics, and texture but of course, this is all subjective.
I was inspired by the many success stories of chocolatiers highlighted in several case examples in the course’s first module. But what fascinated me most was the historical timeline of cacao; it evolved from a crop in South America’s Upper Amazon to being a highly revered crop by ancient civilizations such as the Olmecs, Mayas, and Aztecs leading up to the Industrial Revolution to ultimately becoming a billion-dollar chocolate industry. I also enjoyed learning and familiarizing myself with local and international stakeholders in the industry. I was delighted to see several Belizean entities such as Eladio’s Chocolate Adventure, Ixcacao Chocolate, Maya Mountain Cacao, Toledo Cacao Growers Association, and others mentioned in the program.
I felt privileged to participate in this course. I highly recommend this program to anyone as passionate as I am about cacao and chocolate! As I transition from a Cacao Fellow program alum to a Quality Control Manager at Crioco’s LLC, I find this training resourceful and informative. Overall, I had a wonderful learning experience and a flexible timeline. As of January 2025, I am participating in Part 2 of this course. A special thanks goes to Ms. Heather Barrett and Mr. Jacob Marlin who took the time out of their hectic schedules to acquire chocolate bars for this course. Many of the bars were ordered from Caputo’s Market and Deli, which is a wonderful partner of BFREE. Scholarship Funding for my course participation was provided by BFREE as a reward for successful completion of the BFREE Science and Education Fellowship Program.
Started the day by reading and selecting premium dark chocolate for my taste assignment.Wild Amazonian chocolate! One of four of my favorite dark chocolates throughout the course.
https://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_3807.jpg15122016Roxanna Chenhttps://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Logo-1080.pngRoxanna Chen2025-01-28 23:33:192025-01-29 23:06:23A professional crash course for cacao and chocolate lovers!
Q&A with Samih Young, BFREE Wildlife Education Fellow
This summer, Samih Young and Rachael Harff got to know each other while participating in the Fourth Annual Turtle Survey of the BFREE Privately Protected Area. The survey is a collaboration between BFREE and Turtle Survival Alliance‘s Volunteer Research Team – also known as the North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group (NAFTRG). Together, along with others, Samih and Rachael spent eight days collecting data on the turtle species that are found in the area.
The 2024 Belize Turtle Research Team included staff of BFREE and volunteers from the Turtle Survival Alliance North American Freshwater Turtle Group
In this article, Samih poses questions to Rachael to learn more about her interest in reptiles and also the work that she is doing at the Turtle Survival Center in South Carolina.
Samih – What first drew you to working with reptiles, particularly turtles?
Rachael – I have always appreciated reptiles and began working with them after college through a herpetology-focused internship. It was during that experience that I learned about the Turtle Survival Center and started working with them in 2021. While I have always loved animals, my time at the TSC has deepened my appreciation and a particular fondness for turtles and tortoises.
Samih – What are the biggest threats to turtle and tortoise populations and what is being done to address them?
Rachael – Threats to turtle and tortoise populations include habitat destruction, unsustainable collection for the pet trade, use for food or medicinal purposes, and the impacts of climate change. Several laws, such as CITES, the ESA, and the Lacey Act, aim to protect these species. Additionally, numerous organizations are actively working to conserve turtle populations and their habitats. Effective conservation of the approximately 360 species of turtles and tortoises requires a deep understanding of their ecological roles, including their habitat requirements, reproductive strategies, behaviors, and interactions within ecosystems. This knowledge is crucial for developing and implementing targeted conservation methods.
In Belize with Staurotypus triporcatusWith Clinton Doak, Director of TSC Operations, & trachemys scripta scripta found during population survey on the TSC property.Kinosternon subrubrum adult and two hatchlings
Samih – Are there a particular species of turtle or tortoise you find most fascinating to work with?
Rachael – I have had the privilege of working with many different species of turtles and tortoises, but my favorite experiences are when I get to observe them in their natural habitat and work with them in the field. It’s always fascinating to be fully immersed in their environment, watching them swim by or interact with other species and their surroundings.
Samih – What is one thing you wish more people knew about turtles or reptiles in general?
Rachael – I wish more people knew about the ecological importance of reptiles. One simple way people can support reptile conservation is by fostering an appreciation for these creatures through observation and education, rather than resorting to actions like killing or displacing them. By learning about their ecological importance, unique behaviors, and roles in maintaining ecosystem balance, individuals can develop a greater respect for reptiles and make more informed, compassionate decisions about how to coexist with them.
Samih – How does the work you do with TSA promote turtle conservation and what are some of your major accomplishments?
Rachael – At the Turtle Survival Alliance’s Turtle Survival Center, we work with over 20 of the world’s most endangered turtle and tortoise species. The center was founded with the mission of achieving zero turtle extinctions worldwide. The species housed at the TSC have been carefully selected based on their conservation status, lack of effective protection in the wild, and challenges with captive breeding.
As a Chelonian Keeper II, I am directly involved in the captive care and breeding of these turtles, and I consider any success in this work an accomplishment. However, the success of the TSC over the past 13 years is the result of the dedication and efforts of many individuals. I look forward to continuing to contribute alongside the team to ensure the future success of turtle conservation.
Searching for turtles in our ponds at the TSC for their bi annual health checksKiawah Island Diamondback Terrapin Project conducting diamondback terrapin surveys (Conducted by Sewanee: University of the South students & TSA)
https://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_2439-1-rotated.jpg20161512Samih Younghttps://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Logo-1080.pngSamih Young2025-01-28 23:07:402025-01-29 23:15:23A moment with Rachael Harff, Chelonian Keeper at the Turtle Survival Center
The 9th edition of BFREE’s annual magazineis now available in an interactive format online at Issuu! Get the latest news from the field station and learn about exciting research, conservation and education projects taking place in and around the rainforests of Belize.
Highlights of the 2024 magazine include: updates on the conservation and outreach programs associated with cacao agroforestry, the Hicatee turtle, and Science & Education Fellowship Program.
Click here to download a PDF of The Bladen Review 2024.
Special thanks to Jill Jacobs for designing this year’s magazine and to Parker Gibbons for photographing the cover image of a Speckled Racer (Drymobius margaritiferus) during his visit to the field station this summer.
Join the Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education (BFREE) and the Turtle Survival Alliance’s Volunteer Science Program to participate in a long-term population monitoring project for freshwater and terrestrial turtle species located within BFREE’s Privately Protected Area in southern Belize. The BFREE Privately Protected Area is a 1,153-acre reserve that adjoins the largest tract of rainforest north of the Amazon. It’s an incredible hotspot for biodiversity where tapirs, howler monkeys, jaguars, and harpy eagles are often spotted and is the last stronghold for many endangered species.
Participants will be supporting researchers in the fifth annual survey of a 10-year long-term monitoring project to provide basic demographic and population information. Turtles will be captured using various methods, including hand capture and baited traps, and will be given unique identification marks and injected with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags for future identification. You’ll be joined by herpetologists and experts in the field from both the US and Belize. From 2021-2024 the BFREE and TSA-Volunteer Science Team marked, measured and safely released over 1,000 turtles. Turtles found included White-lipped Mud Turtle, Tabasco Mud Turtle, Scorpion Mud turtle, Narrow-bridged Musk Turtle, Mexican Giant Musk Turtle, Central American Snapping Turtle, Furrowed Wood Turtle, and the Meso-American Slider. These species represent eight of Belize’s nine known freshwater turtles.
We look forward to you joining us in Belize for the July 2025 BFREE and TSA-Volunteer Science Team Turtle Survey in the jungle!
2024 Survey Team
DATES
July 6-16, 2025 – OPEN
Spaces are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Deposits will be accepted beginning November 15, 2024.
REQUIREMENTS
Able to hike between 5 and 10 miles a day in 90-degree weather with 100% humidity.
Able to lift and carry 40 lbs. for periods of time.
Willingness to get dirty and to put long days in.
CONTACT
Questions, please contact Eric Munscher, Director of the Turtle Survival Alliance’s – North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group (TSA-Volunteer Science Program) at
Day One: Arrive at the Belize international airport (BZE) by 11:30 AM to meet ground transportation and travel by bus to BFREE. Hike in to field station. Settle into rooms and unpack before dinner.
Day Two: Tour the BFREE Facility and familiarize yourself with the various trails and facilities. Free time to relax and swim in the crystal-clear water of the Bladen River or explore one of BFREE’s many conservation initiatives, including the Hicatee Conservation & Research Center (HCRC), a captive breeding facility for the critically endangered Central American River Turtle, Dermatemys mawii, locally known in Belize as the Hicatee.
Day Three – Nine: Turtle surveys throughout BFREE’s 1,153-acre private reserve. Turtle surveys will primarily take place on the ground. There will be one or two days of river surveys but most data is collected on land.
Day Ten – Breakfast. Hike out from field station, transportation to Hokey Pokey water taxi. Stay at Sea Spray in Placencia. Dinner on your own.
Day Eleven: Ground transportation from Placencia to Belize International Airport.
COSTS
The cost is $1,800 per participant, plus 3.5% processing if credit or debit card is used. Other payment options are available.
Cost Includes:
Double occupancy in BFREE’s newest accommodation, the Hammock, which features an open-air veranda connecting six private rooms. Linens, pillows, and blankets provided.
Three chef-prepared meals per day.
Guided night hikes and tours of BFREE’s conservation programs
Transportation from the international airport to the BFREE entrance road.
Ground and water taxi transportation to Sea Spray hotel in Placencia with one night stay included.
Fees paid to this program not only support your participation in critical turtle research for Belize but also have a direct impact on the country’s next generation of conservation leaders. Funding from this TSA Volunteer Science Program-BFREE research program helps to support Belizean participation in scientific research at BFREE.
REGISTER
Space is limited for this incredible opportunity; make your deposit today to secure your spot. Deposits are due by April 1, 2025. The final payment is due by June 7th, 2025. To register for this program, read the Booking Terms and Conditions on the next page.
Participants must agree to all terms and conditions of booking before registering for this program. This program is coordinated by the Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education (BFREE).
Covered Costs.
Participation in the 2025 Turtle Survey at BFREE is $1,800 per person. These covered costs per person include accommodations, meals (while at BFREE), guided tours of BFREE, round-trip ground transportation from Belize International Airport and ground transportation to Placencia. Program Fees Do Not include the following: international airfare to BZE, meals in Placencia, soft drinks and beers, or travel insurance, gratuities/souvenirs – at your discretion.
Deposit and Final Payment.
A $500 USD Non-Refundable initial deposit will secure your spot on the trip, or you may choose to pay in full. The remaining balance is due 30-days before the retreat start date. Failure to make payment by the applicable due date may forfeit your booking on the trip and be treated as a cancellation. If a booking is made less than 30-days before the trip start date, the full amount must be paid at the time of booking.
Payment Schedule.
The $500 deposit is due for all participants by April 1, 2025. Final payment for participants is due by June 7, 2025. Payments made with credit card should be made here. Payments may also be made by check and mailed to: US for BFREE/ 3520 NW 43rd Street/ Gainesville, FL, 32606.
Cancellations.
Cancellations made by participants should include a formal refund request sent by email to reservations@bfreebz.org. According to the outline below, approved refunds by BFREE will be returned to the participant.
Refund requests more than 60-days before the program start date will receive a full refund minus the $500 deposit.
Refund requests more than 30-days before the program start date will receive a 50% refund minus the $500 deposit.
Refund requests less than 30-days before the program start date are non-refundable.
Cancellations 30-days or less to the program start date due to events directly relating to international travel restrictions and border closings, will receive a 50% refund minus the deposit.
BFREE is not liable for additional costs incurred due to cancellation, including flights, lodgings, activities, meals, etc. BFREE strongly recommends that all participants purchase travel insurance (medical, pandemic coverage, and trip cancellation) to protect you in case of any unforeseen emergencies. BFREE shall, in its sole discretion, have the right, upon written notice to the participant and without further liability, to terminate a program. Participants will be refunded following the Cancellation policy outlined above. BFREE is not liable for any loss or damage suffered by you, including but not limited to the loss of the Deposit and/or Full Payment, as a result of a Force Majeure Event and/or the cancellation of a Program due to a Force Majeure Event.
Travel to BFREE.
International flights should arrive at the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) no later than 11:30 AM on the first day of the program. On the program’s final day, international departure flights should not depart BZE before 1:00pm.
Info Session.
Turtle Survival Alliance and Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education will host an informational virtual meeting in 2025 for all confirmed Participants prior to survey. Meeting Date: TBA
Associated Publications.
Publications that have been produced as a result from this survey.
Skibsted, M., McAvinchey, C., Walde, A., Marlin, J., Pop, T. Weber, A. and Munscher, E. 2023. CHELYDRA ROSSIGNONII (Central American Snapping Turtle), KINOSTERNON ACUTUM (Tabasco Mud Turtle), K. LEUCOSTOMUM LEUCOSTOMUM (Northern White-lipped Mud Turtle), and TRACHEMYS VENUSTA VENUSTA (MesoAmerican Slider). Hatchling Behavior.. Herpetological Review 54(2): 279-281.
Munscher, E., Serano, J., Tuggle, A., Weber, A., McAvinchey, C., Dubon, J., Pop, T., Hauge, J.B., Barrett, H., Marlin, J., Butterfield, B.P., Stein, J., and Walde, A.D. 2023. Quantifying freshwater and terrestrial turtle species diversity, richness, and abundance at a site in southern Belize. Neotropical Naturalist 4(7):1-16.
Munscher, E.C., T. Pop, L. Pearson, H. Barrett, G. Knauss, J. Marlin, C. McAvinchey, M. Morrison, J. Pignatelli, J. Stein, A. Tuggle, and A. Walde. 2022. First verified observation of the narrow-bridged musk turtle Claudiusangustatus Cope, 1865 from the Toldeo District of southern Belize. Herpetology Notes 15:735-740.
https://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_2664.jpg12381448Heather Barretthttps://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Logo-1080.pngHeather Barrett2024-11-07 19:37:232025-02-19 21:15:462025 Long-term Turtle Survey in the Jungle
Hicatee Awareness Month began in 2017 to draw attention to the status of Belize’s only critically endangered reptile, the Central American River Turtle locally called “Hicatee”. Eight years later, BFREE and our NGO international and local partners including Turtle Survival Alliance, Zoo New England, Belize Wildlife Referral Clinic, WCS Belize, Community Baboon Sanctuary and Savannah Field Station continue to champion the protection of this turtle and the rivers, lagoons and other freshwater systems it calls home.
This year’s theme, “Hicatee and Friends,” was selected by University of Belize student, Samih Young, and Independence Junior College student, Andrew Choco, during their summer jobs at the BFREE Field Station. As part of their Science and Education Fellowship Program, Young, Choco and their student colleague, Heston Castillo, were assigned to help develop themes and content for the 2024 Hicatee Awareness Month campaign. Because Belize is home to nine species of Freshwater turtles, the theme grew from the idea that the Hicatee isn’t the only turtle that has value or is suffering declining populations in the country.
Young and Choco learned about Belize’s turtles during their participation in an annual survey of freshwater turtle species on the BFREE Reserve. This survey is a collaboration between BFREE and the Turtle Survival Alliance and was designed to fill in knowledge gaps for as many Belizean inland and freshwater turtle species as possible. Long-term population demographics including population estimates, survivability over time, sex ratios, density, biomass, and growth are largely unknown for these species.
Young states, “I thought “Hicatee and Friends” was the best theme this year because, while in the past we have focused on the Hicatee due to its critically endangered population status, it is important to recognize and promote knowledge about all of Belize’s turtles. With knowledge comes power and through this theme, we aim to empower people by sharing information about all nine species of inland and freshwater turtles, encouraging a deeper understanding and connection to our entire ecosystem.”
Resources and Outreach
With the new theme and new materials, BFREE is collaborating with Independence Junior College, University of Belize’s Environmental Club, and Sacred Heart Junior College so that students, “Hicatee Ambassadors,” are the ones implementing the outreach events using materials created by the Hicatee Awareness Month planning committee and collaborators. This month, BFREE and its student collaborators have over 15 school and community presentations scheduled during October.
Jaren Serano, BFREE Dermatemys Program Coordinator states, ” This month-long event plays a vital role in fostering community participation and enhancing the effectiveness of conservation efforts for the critically endangered Dermatemys mawii (Hicatee turtle). By dedicating time to raising awareness of the species’ endangered status, the initiative helps inform local communities about the Hicatee’s cultural and ecological significance. Hicatee Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to strengthen the connection between conservation, cultural heritage, and community-driven action. This makes it an essential tool for promoting the long-term survival of this unique species as well as all freshwater turtles in Belize.”
The first event took place on Wednesday, October 2nd and was co-hosted by University of Belize Environmental Club and BFREE. This online presentation by Mr. Jaren Serano was entitled “Celebrating Ten Years of Conservation Work at the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center (HCRC) in Belize,” and was made available to university students throughout Belize.
Visit Facebook or Instagram for details on events happening during this October’s month-long celebration. Resources for educators can be found here.
At BFREE, a diverse range of reptiles thrive within its boundaries. I’ve been fortunate to encounter several species firsthand, from the slow-moving yet captivating turtles to the agile and vibrant lizards. My recent encounters with snakes have deepened my interest in these often misunderstood creatures, revealing the unique roles they play in this ecosystem. Each experience has broadened my appreciation for the rich biodiversity that BFREE safeguards and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these remarkable reptiles.
Drone image of the BFREE Field Station and Privately Protected Area
How I got interested
To be frank, I never had an interest in reptiles during my early days at BFREE. Instead, I was more captivated by the diverse trees within the tropical forest and the agroforestry aspects of cacao cultivation here. However, this changed in early July 2024, when a young and enthusiastic naturalist, and in my opinion, an amazing individual, Parker Gibbons, visited the BFREE headquarters.
I had the incredible opportunity to accompany him in catching and photographing some of the critters found at BFREE, particularly snakes. We encountered many beautiful specimens, but it was a Boa constrictor that truly sparked my fascination. Watching Parker handle the snake with ease and enthusiasm, completely unafraid, inspired me to pursue the same path. Since then, I can often be found at BFREE, searching for snakes and other reptiles. I’ve even dedicated much of my time in the library, studying snakes and keeping track of the venomous ones to ensure I know which to avoid.
Parker Gibbons, Heston Castillo and Samih Young with a Boa constrictorHeston Castillo learned safe handling techniques before picking up any snake
Respect these creatures!
While the excitement of encountering and handling snakes can be tempting, it’s important to remember that handling these creatures should only be done by those who are trained and knowledgeable. Mishandling snakes can cause them stress or injury, and in some cases, put you at risk. For those who aren’t experienced, it’s best to admire these fascinating reptiles from a distance. Instead of picking them up, consider capturing their beauty through photos or videos, and always respect their space.
Remember, snakes are an essential part of the ecosystem, and they deserve to be observed, not harassed!
Basket tie tie (Oxybelis aeneus)Mexican Parrot Snake (Leptophis mexicanus)Speckled Racer (Drymobius margaritiferus)
List and images of the snakes I’ve encountered:
This newfound passion has led me to moments of personal pride as I’ve successfully found and handled snakes on my own, using a handmade tool. Some of the species I’ve encountered include:
Speckled Racer (Drymobius margaritiferus) The Speckled Racer is a non-venomous snake known for its vibrant coloration, featuring black scales with white or yellow spots that give it a speckled appearance.
Cat-eyed Snake (Leptodeira annulata) The Cat-eyed Snake is a nocturnal snake. relatively small and has a brown color with black markings around its body.
Coffee Snake (Ninia sebae) The Coffee Snake is a small, non-venomous species with a dark brown or coffee-colored body. This snake is often found in leaf litter and moist environments around BFREE.
Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor) A well-known large snake, the Boa Constrictor is a non-venomous snake that uses powerful muscles to suffocate prey, wrapping around them and later consuming them.
Brown Vine Snake (Oxybelis Aeneus) The brown vine snake is a slender, non-venomous snake. It has a brown, elongated body and uses its unique tail to navigate through shrubs and trees.
Boa constrictorBFREE’s Executive Director, Jacob Marlin, is a Herpetologist and ensures that reptile education is a component of BFREE’s educational programs
https://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/a6f18d88-6e52-4283-ada2-3023d9de1ed2-1-scaled.jpg25601920Heston Castillohttps://www.bfreebz.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Logo-1080.pngHeston Castillo2024-09-10 21:42:342024-09-18 19:34:08Reptiles through the eyes of a newbie: Wanna Be Herpetologist
