Posts
Disney Conservation Hero – Thomas Pop
BFREE and our international partner in turtle conservation, Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA), are extremely proud to announce that Thomas Pop, manager of the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center was chosen as a Disney Conservation Hero. Tom has been recognized for over twelve years of tireless efforts to conserve the critically endangered Central American River Turtle, called Hicatee here in Belize.
Every year, the Disney Conservation Fund selects a handful of Conservation Heroes from around the world to highlight the conservation efforts of local citizens and their actions to save wildlife, protect habitats, and inspire communities to engage in conservation. Since 2004, Disney has honored more than 200 Conservation Heroes from more than 50 countries around the world.
About Tom Pop
Thomas “Tom” Pop began work with the HCRC in 2014 immediately after construction was completed. Located at BFREE, the HCRC was a brand-new project seeking to ensure the survival of the Central American River Turtle and it needed a manager who was trusted and had already proven their competency. Tom was hand-picked for the role by BFREE Executive Director, Jacob Marlin, who met him over 20 years before and had employed him consistently since then.
Tom is a Q’uechi’ Maya Belizean who was living in a small bush camp in an area called Chun Bank just across the river from the BFREE reserve. During the course of his youth, he worked as a logger who was excellent at his job. He was expertly skilled at felling massive trees throughout northern Belize.
When Jacob moved onto the BFREE reserve in 1995, his goal was to set up a field station and support the management of the neighboring Bladen Nature Reserve. He received a lease to live on and manage the 1,153-acre private property, which was covered in lowland tropical rainforest, but he couldn’t find the survey markers that define the edges of the property. After endless and unsuccessful searching, he asked his Mayan neighbors across the river if anyone knew about these small stone markers and if they could help him find them. The smiling, eager teenager who stepped forward to achieve the task, was a young Tom Pop.
Tom easily navigated through the forest and quickly found the first marker that Jacob needed to begin to establish the location of the property. Tom’s delightful nature, his remarkable skill in the jungle, and his constant curiosity about the world around him, made Jacob take note and remember him. A few years later, when Jacob needed to hire the first Park Rangers for the Bladen Nature Reserve, Tom applied to fill the role and was selected. By then, Tom had moved from Deep River Forest Reserve about 10 miles south to the village of Golden Stream.
Over the course of the next two decades, Tom served countless roles associated with BFREE’s conservation programs. Following his role as a ranger with the Bladen Nature Reserve, Tom filled jobs as they were offered and needed at the field station. The rainforest facility didn’t operate year-round in the beginning, so Tom’s work came in bits and pieces and often involved supporting visiting researchers. Each came to respect and value Tom’s skills and company so much that they requested to work with him above all other field technicians. Because of his skills and attitude, he has supported research on everything from birds to fish to turtles to sedges. To this day, Tom is beyond compare in the field – he is an excellent bush guide, has exceptional observation skills and is a quick study. Tom is always curious and always a bounty of energy and can move farther and faster than anyone else on the team.
When asked about where his love and understanding for wildlife and wild places came from, Tom simply replied, “It was born in me. From a young child, I followed the streams to learn where they would take me. I could look at that Ceiba tree in the distant forest and, in my mind, I could see the straight line that connected me to it, so I would go.”
In 2010, Tom was selected as the lead field technician for Dr. Thomas Rainwater in the Turtle Survival Alliance’s country-wide aquatic survey to determine the status of the Critically Endangered Hicatee turtle. Tom worked tirelessly day and night for three months to survey river systems and lagoons across the country where Hicatee had been found during surveys 25 years before, and in several locations never surveyed.
Rainwater recounted, “Prior to the countrywide survey, it was suggested to me that Tom Pop would be a great field assistant because of his familiarity with the wetlands and forests of Belize and his diverse skillset, which ranged from capturing and handling wildlife to mechanical repair of vehicles and engines to cooking to swimming, climbing, and cutting trails to masterfully interacting with different groups of people (e.g., scientists, wildlife hunters/poachers, law enforcement officials, local villagers, students, etc.) in a variety of settings. That advice was the key to the success of our survey. Tom was hired, performed as advertised, and further, greatly exceeded expectations. We achieved our goal because of him. We are all fortunate Tom became involved with the hicatee survey and has since taken ownership of overseeing the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center at BFREE. It’s sobering to me to think of how much talent, passion, and conservation productivity might never have been realized if Tom had not been given that initial opportunity to assist with the survey. He has and continues to do amazing work, which he loves, and he is a strong and crucial example to others and Belize (and elsewhere) that anyone (and everyone) can make a significant difference in wildlife conservation”.
Tom views his work at the HCRC as part of his life’s journey. Although this has been his job, he has never treated his work like a job. This jungle is his home, his co-workers and researchers are his brothers and sisters, and these turtles are his children. There is never a question of “if” Tom will give 100% – he always does to those animals and plants who need him.
A few words from some who know and admire Tom
“Tom sees every turtle as one of his own and he aspires to re-populate the entire country of Belize with the turtles raised at the HCRC. Tom is also an educator. He has shown me different functions of animals within ecosystems, Hicatee behavior and most of all, he gave me an appreciation for the wildlife around. His is an inspiration and it’s a privilege to learn from him. I can’t think of a better person than Tom for this Disney Conservation Hero award. Congratulations, Tom!” Barney Hall, Wildlife Fellow at BFREE.
Steven Brewer, Plant Ecologist, Trees of Belize project, stated “I have worked and been friends with Tom for over twenty years. We have hiked and explored deep into Belizean rainforests, living and working among the tremendous challenges and wonders that accompany an unforgiving and remote tropical environment. Through it all, what stands out about Tom is his passion for learning about and connecting to Nature. Tom has a strong memory and keen eye for detail, discerning characteristics of plants and animals that would escape most scientists. For example, I have been impressed with Tom’s ability to look for and find plant species that I showed him only once or twice.”
Jacob Marlin of BFREE stated of Tom, “Broadly speaking, his wide breadth of knowledge of flora and fauna makes him a highly sought-after field biologist. He has supported the discovery of new species, long-term studies that have led toward all kinds of knowledge outputs including publications, books, presentations, documentaries.”
“Tom is not only a work colleague – he is a mentor and a dear friend. He encourages me to see the world around me for what it is – delightful and worthy of my attention. Tom’s smile makes me smile. His curiosity feeds my own. Together, we are explorers and anything is possible.” Heather Barrett, BFREE.
“For Tom, wildlife preservation and nurturing the next generation of conservationists aren’t merely tasks; they’re a way of life. His passion transcends mere profession, reflecting a deep-seated commitment ingrained in every aspect of his being. Today, we celebrate Tom Pop—an exemplar of conservation excellence, whose influence reverberates far beyond the boundaries of BFREE.” Jaren Serano, Dermatemys Program Coordinator, BFREE.
Interview with Tom about his work with the Hicatee
Upon receiving the award, I interviewed Tom about his conservation work.
What inspires you and keeps you motivated to study and conserve Hicatee turtles each day?
A lot of things inspire me here in Belize. Especially in the forest and at work. Everything around me motivates me: birds, wildlife, everything. I especially love and have taken responsibility for the Hicatee turtle because, I believe if I become the best at saving and protecting this turtle then I am saving a piece of the world.
You have played a crucial role in the recovery and protection of the Hicatee. Why is it so important that we conserve this species?
If we do not take the lead on saving species like the Hicatee that are going extinct, then who will? Someone just needs to stand up and try to do something to save the species. For me, I always think about the future. If we don’t do anything, then nobody will know about these turtles and the role they play in the environment, and they will just disappear. We don’t want that to happen for our species in Belize. When I say we, I mean all of us here at BFREE and all of us in Belize and all of us who care everywhere. If I just say “me,” then I have a very small power. If I say “we,” together, then we can really accomplish something.
What’s been the most challenging aspect of working with the species so far, and why?
The only challenging thing for me is keeping the water quality good for turtles in captivity. The water impacts the health of the turtles. If the water is stagnant or there is too much food left in the pond that degrades the quality and the turtles might get sick. Because the turtles live so long before they reproduce, then it is important for them to be healthy throughout their lives, so I spend a lot of time thinking about the water where they live.
What do you think are the biggest challenges to threatened turtles in Belize, and how do you think we best conserve them?
I think the turtles in Belize are getting threatened because the land around waterways like rivers and creeks are changing. More people are getting properties to live on and to farm close to the water, so the riparian forests are getting knocked down. This is removing vital habitat and food resources for wildlife. Also, more people are making access and paths to the rivers which is like an invitation to go and hunt turtles. These things impact the health of the rivers and creeks, and the health of the rivers and creeks impact the turtles and the other wildlife that live there.
What have you found to be the best way to engage Belizeans in turtle conservation?
You have to talk to people and educate them about the status of Belize’s wildlife and other natural resources. A lot of people still don’t know that there is a problem with the decline of species in Belize. People don’t want to hear that they shouldn’t eat something because you are taking food from their table. So, it is critical to educate people about the rapid decline of this turtle and to alert them that they are very near extinction.
Is there hope for the threatened turtle species in Belize?
Yes, there is! As long as you protect the rivers, creeks and lagoons where the turtles are functioning, then there is a chance. And if Belizeans understand how long turtles need to live before reproducing – at least 16 years – then maybe they wouldn’t eat them so quickly. The best way to protect the Hicatee is for the country to make a strong strategy with protocols on how to protect rivers and creeks. Then those strategies and protocols need to be enforced. There isn’t one thing or one person that will save the Hicatee but there is still hope if we all work together.
Hicatee Awareness Month Outreach Programs
The start of this October marked the beginning of the 7th annual Hicatee Awareness Month campaign. Kicking off this initiative, Barney Hall and I embarked on a journey to the western part of Belize, focusing our efforts on regions notorious for the harvesting of Hicatee turtles for consumption. Our initial step involved seeking permission from these schools to conduct our classroom visits.
Our primary goal was to raise awareness through educational outreach, and we did so with the help of an interactive PowerPoint presentation. Throughout our visit, we emphasized key facets of Hicatee conservation. This included promoting the recognition of the Hicatee turtle and its status, highlighting the laws designed to safeguard this species, and showcasing the ongoing conservation efforts taking place in Belize. Most importantly, we aimed to leave a lasting impact on the students, with the hope of sparking a sense of motivation within them to become the next generation of dedicated conservationists.
Our educational journey spanned across several locations, encompassing schools in Belmopan City, Roaring Creek Village, Teakettle Village, Spanish Lookout Community, Valley of Peace Village, Blackman Eddy Village, Ontario Village, Georgeville Village, Santa Elena Town, and El Progresso Village. In the span of just five days, we had the privilege of visiting 14 schools and reaching a total of 581 students.
The response to our presentation was nothing short of heartwarming. Both students and teachers expressed their eagerness to learn more about this remarkable turtle and called for stronger enforcement of the laws established to protect and ensure the long-term survival of this critically endangered species. Here are some of the encouraging comments we received:
“The entire presentation was engaging and informative. I liked the interaction throughout the session.” – Valley of Peace Community School
“Enforce the laws that are set in place to protect the Hicatee turtles.” – St. Martin de Porres R.C School
“Excellent job! Come more often.” – Our Lady of Guadeloupe High School
“Very good job! Keep up the good work.” – Eden S.D.A High School
As we journey onward in our outreach campaign, we are firmly committed to fostering a nationwide recognition of this unique turtle that is literally being eaten to extinction. To contribute meaningfully to the preservation of the Hicatee turtles, we recognize the importance of engaging community members of all ages, backgrounds, and professions in our conservation and research initiatives. This collaborative approach holds the key to advancing the conservation efforts for the Hicatee and securing its future in Belize and throughout its geographic range.
The Importance of Involving Local Communities in Conservation
I vividly recall my first time on the Belize River, navigating a canoe while assisting in population surveys for a Hicatee assessment. Despite my Belizean upbringing, my familiarity was primarily inland, leaving the fishing communities’ way of life somewhat foreign to me. Engaging in river-based research marked my initial exposure to the intricate relationship between these communities and the waterway.
The river serves not only as a food source but also as a gathering place for families, where they bond through storytelling and laughter on a relaxing Sunday afternoon. This is a place where elders pass on swimming and life lessons to their grandchildren, while youngsters test their aquatic stamina through diving games. Apart from fishing, the river holds multiple significant meanings to the communities who consider it their backyard.
By observing fishing communities seamlessly blend into their environment, I started to see that, even though we all live in the same country, different communities have their own special ways of connecting with the environment we all share. This recognition as well as my recent experience studying abroad has helped me to realize that integrating local knowledge in the work that we do allows for the development of conservation strategies that are culturally appropriate and tailored to the specific needs of the area.
In Belize, Hicatee turtles have historically been harvested as a traditional and celebratory food source, resulting in a significant decline in their population. The consumption of Hicatee meat holds deep -roots within the Belizean population. I believe it is our responsibility as conservationists with a scientific perspective to consider how we can address this cultural tradition while also preserving the integrity of the species. Local perspectives can help us identify potential conflicts between Hicatee conservation efforts and local needs.
Incorporating these communities in our work can also improve the effectiveness of our research. For example, by communicating with local fishers we can identify areas where Hicatee turtles are in abundance but are being heavily harvested; this information can help us make informed decisions about areas to protect. Hiring dedicated locals as riverkeepers of these protected areas also offers the opportunity to create sustainable livelihoods within target communities. By involving communities in conservation efforts, we hope to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility. When people are valued and engaged, they are more likely to actively participate in protecting their environment as well as the biodiversity that inhabits it.
To effectively contribute to the preservation of the Hicatee turtles, it’s crucial to involve community members of all ages, backgrounds and professions in our conservation and research endeavors. Some examples include the involvement of community leaders, local fisherfolks who know every twist and turn of the rivers, the popular food vendors down the street who help to keep the community fed, farmers who provide us with local produce and the dedicated educators who are shaping young minds. In closing, Biodiversity in ecosystems contributes to resilience and adaptability. Similarly, diversity in conservation teams enhances adaptability to changing circumstances and challenges.
Jaren Serano returns to BFREE as Dermatemys Program Coordinator
By Jaren Serano
During my first stint at BFREE, I had the privilege of witnessing the positive impact that organizations like this have on land conservation, wildlife protection, and the conservation efforts among the local communities in Belize. When I joined as BFREE’s first Science and Education Fellow in 2017, I was immediately drawn to their ongoing Dermatemys mawii (Hicatee) captive breeding program. At the time, this was still a relatively new collaboration between BFREE and the Turtle Survival Alliance, and we were experiencing our second year of hatching success.
My desire to contribute to the conservation efforts and help safeguard this species motivated me to be a part of this program. Through my active engagement and with guidance provided by Thomas Pop, the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center Manager, I acquired priceless firsthand experience working closely with the Hicatee turtles, both in controlled environments and their natural habitats. At the captive breeding facility, my daily responsibilities involved caring for and handling the turtles, which allowed me to develop skills in husbandry and effective management practices.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job was assisting in the care and rearing of hatchlings and juveniles. Being responsible for the well-being of over a hundred critically endangered Hicatee hatchlings instilled in me a profound sense of purpose and pride. Additionally, as a fellow, I had the privilege to gain insights from and work alongside various biologists, including Dr. Donald McKnight, Dr. Day Ligon and Denise Thompson. Together, we conducted population assessments for the Hicatee turtle within river systems in Belize. This not only enabled me to observe wild Hicatees for the first time but also provided a platform to engage with local anglers and raise awareness about the species’ conservation status.
After graduating from the fellowship program at BFREE, I traveled to the states to complete my bachelor’s degree in Sustainability at Jacksonville University (JU) under the advisement of Dr. John Enz. Being part of this program gave me a deeper understanding of the requirements needed to make a significant impact in today’s conservation field. Additionally, it offered me the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of like-minded individuals, some of whom have since become lifelong friends.
Following my accomplishments at JU, I then applied to and was accepted at the University of Florida (UF) for my master’s degree program. Throughout this period, I collaborated closely with Dr. Ray Carthy, Dr. Nichole Bishop, and Dr. Todd Osborne. My main focus was directed towards researching aspects of the reproductive ecology of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). While at UF, I worked as a graduate research assistant at the Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, which allowed me to further develop as a student of nature and has provided me with a solid scientific foundation. This dynamic environment has sharpened my analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and aptitude for effectively communicating scientific information and wildlife management programs to my peers in the sciences as well as the general public.
Now, as the Dermatemys Program Coordinator, I am incredibly enthusiastic about my new role. I am confident that my educational background, ever-expanding knowledge of the Hicatee turtle, and experience in wildlife conservation management will allow me to make immediate contributions to the ongoing efforts to prevent further decline of this critically endangered species.
Amidst a world challenged by increasing anthropogenic pressures, Belize is blessed to still possess approximately 55 percent of forest cover and a vibrant array of wildlife. As a proud Belizean, I derive immense satisfaction from actively participating in conservation initiatives within our country, striving to maintain the integrity of our diverse ecosystems. Over time, I have developed a profound respect for the ecological and cultural importance of D. mawii in Belize. This has fueled my determination to assist in implementing effective management practices that can strengthen this unique relationship and collaborate towards the restoration of declining and extirpated populations of D. mawii throughout its entire range.
My goal is to help promote governmental recognition of the Hicatee, with the hope that existing regulations can better align with the long-term sustainability of the species. Additionally, I aim to actively engage the community and foster a nationwide appreciation for D. mawii as a crucial member of Belize’s riparian ecosystems, rather than solely viewing it as a food resource. I firmly believe that by working together and actively collaborating, we can save the Hicatee from the brink of extinction.
With Thanks
Special Thanks to the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) for their continuous support of the BFREE Science and Education Fellowship Program. Also, thanks to TSA and the Disney Conservation Fund for their financial support to launch the position of Dermatemys Program Coordinator.
Hicatee Health Check
This year’s first Hicatee health check took place on April 4th and 5th at the Hicatee Conservation & Research Center (HCRC).
The HCRC, a joint effort between BFREE and the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA), is a captive-breeding facility for the critically endangered Central American River Turtle (more commonly known as Hicatee). Captive-breeding offers the potential to produce offspring for release and repatriation into areas that have experienced widespread declines or extirpation. Additionally, specimens maintained in captivity provide valuable opportunities for studying aspects of the species’ reproductive biology, diet and behavior that would otherwise be difficult to observe or study in the field.
The April health checks assessed the nearly 100 hicatee turtles in captivity at the HCRC. First, hatchlings 9 months to 2 years old followed by the 45 adults from each of the two ponds were weighed, measured (plastrons, carapace, tail, and nails), checked for overall physical conditions, and reproductive evaluations were performed.
The team consisted of Dewey Maddox, Veterinary nurse, and Emily Fyfe, Senior Herpetology Keeper, from the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Robert Mendyk, Curator of Herpetology at the Audubon Zoo, Dr. Isabel Paquet-Durand, founder and director of the Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic, Dr. Raymond Carthy, Nichole Bishop and Dr. Sean Sharp from the University of Florida, Vanessa Kilburn from Toucan Ridge Ecology & Education Society, and Jacob Marlin, Heather Barrett, Tom Pop, Jaren Serano and Tyler Sanville of BFREE, as well as volunteers Will Jones and Tybren Vialdores and Aimee Mitchell.
BFREE aims to complete bi-annual health checks on the turtles housed at the HCRC to help further inform and influence conservation strategies and actions. The next health check is scheduled for September 2018.
Currently, Dermatemys mawii is classified as Critically Endangered (facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the near future) by the International Union for Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), listed as endangered under the provisions of the U.S. Endangered Species Act (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), and listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Special note for our friends in the US: If you find yourself near The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, be sure to visit the Emerald Valley Aviary where you can see three hicatee, the only place in the US where this rare and unusual turtle is on exhibit.
Hicatee Awareness Month FAQ
Hicatee Awareness Month is well underway with lots of exciting updates and opportunities to get involved. We’ve compiled a list of important links so that you don’t miss anything!
‘Hope For Belize’s Hicatee: Central American River Turtle’
A 16-minute natural history documentary is now available to watch on YouTube. This film highlights the cultural significance of the hicatee in Belize, the environmental pressures propelling it toward extinction as well as the current work being done in Belize to save the species.
For a link to download the film, send an email request to: contact@bfreebz.org
The Toolkit was created to share various ways you can get involved in supporting Hicatee Awareness Month. Host a viewing party, take the pledge or fundraise to support the HCRC for a chance to adopt and name your own turtle.
Hicatee Resources can be used to find facts about the turtles. Use them at your viewing party, in your classroom or just impress your friends with your new turtley awesome knowledge!
Our friends at WildStuff Apparel have created a one of a kind National Hickatee Day T-Shirt. All proceeds will be donated to the HCRC!
Check out our special Hicatee Facebook Profile Cover images. You can change your cover photo to show your support for Hicatee Awareness Month!
You can be a Hicatee Hero! Simply take the Hicatee Pledge and send us your #Shellfie!
Lauren is a #HicateeHero and inspires all of us to continue working to #SaveTheHicatee.
We are looking for volunteers to support the ongoing work at the HCRC. Find out more by clicking on the link!
Find out more about the Hicatee Conservation & Research Center located at the BFREE Biological Field Station in southern Belize.
Here is your chance to adopt and name a turtle! We encourage you to get creative with fundraising or turn your viewing party into a fundraiser. With a $1,000 donation to the HCRC you can adopt and name a hicatee turtle. Your turtle’s chosen name will be engraved on a plaque at the HCRC.
