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2025 Long-term Turtle Survey in the Jungle

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July 6 – 16, 2025

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

emunscher@turtlesurvival.org

or Bridget Nelson, BFREE Office Administrator at bnelson@bfreebz.org

ITINERARY

  • Day One: Arrive at the Belize international airport (BZE) by 1:30 PM 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 card is used.

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.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

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 1:30 PM 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 Claudius angustatus Cope, 1865 from the Toldeo District of southern Belize. Herpetology Notes 15:735-740. 

Disney Conservation Hero – Thomas Pop

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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.”

Tom holding “Stubby” the Hicatee during a health assessment
Tom helped out at the Turtle Survival Center while visiting in 2022

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.

Jonathan Dubon, Jacob Marlin, Andy Denault, Thomas Pop, Heather Barrett and Rick Hudson celebrate Tom’s achievement at a private award’s ceremony during the 20th Annual Symposium on the Conservation and Biology of Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles in Tucson, Arizona.

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.

Fully Booked! 2024 BFREE TURTLE SURVEY

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LONG TERM TURTLE SURVEY IN THE JUNGLE

Thanks for the incredible interest in our 2024 survey. We are no longer accepting deposits for this program.

You can be added to the wait-list by emailing bnelson@bfreebz.org

Join the Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education (BFREE) and the Turtle Survival Alliance’s North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group (TSA-NAFTRG) 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 fourth 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 2021-2023 the BFREE and TSA-NAFTRG team marked, measured and safely released 836 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 2024 BFREE and TSA-NAFTRG Turtle Survey in the jungle!

DATES

July 8th-18th, 2024 – OPEN

Spaces are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Deposits will be accepted beginning January 30, 2023. Participants are required to book their own transportation to BFREE, including international airfare to the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) and domestic airfare to Savannah (INB).

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-NAFTRG) at

emunscher@turtlesurvival.org

ITINERARY

  • Day One: Arrive at BZE by 1:30 PM, fly to INB at 3:30 PM (exact flight time to be updated in 2024). Transportation provided from INB to the BFREE Entrance road. 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: Transportation to INB for a domestic flight back to BZE.

COSTS

The cost is $1,750 per participant.

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 Savannah Airport (INB) 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-NAFTRG-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, 2024. The final payment is due by June 7th, 2024. To register for this program, read the Booking Terms and Conditions on the next page.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
www.bfreebz.org

www.turtlesurvival.org
www.facebook.com/naftrg

BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

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 2024 Turtle Survey at BFREE is $1,750 per person. These covered costs per person include accommodations, meals (while at BFREE), guided tours of BFREE and transportation to Placencia. Program Fees Do Not include the following: international airfare to BZE, roundtrip domestic airfare with Maya Island Air to Savannah (INB), 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, 2024. Final payment for Participants is due by June 7, 2024. Payments should be made at www.givebutter.com/turtle2024

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, COVID-19 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 1:30 PM on the first day of the program. On the program’s final day, international departure flights should not depart BZE before noon.

COVID-19 Policy.

All guests must adhere to the Government of Belize’s COVID-19 health and safety protocols at the time of their visit to Belize, as well as those from the departure destination. BFREE is not liable to cover or absorb losses associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Cancellations 30-days or prior to the departure date due to events directly relating to COVID-19, specifically international and university travel restrictions and border closings, will be refunded 50% of the program’s total cost minus the deposit.  All visitors to BFREE are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Info Session.

Turtle Survival Alliance and Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education will host an informational virtual meeting in 2024 for all
confirmed Participants prior to survey. Meeting Date: TBA

BFREE TURTLE SURVEY

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LONG TERM TURTLE SURVEY IN THE JUNGLE

Join the Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education (BFREE) and the Turtle Survival Alliance’s North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group (TSA-NAFTRG) 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 second 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. In 2021, the BFREE and TSA-NAFTRG Team marked, measured, and safely released 272 turtles. Turtles found included White-lipped Mud Turtle, Tabasco Mud Turtle, Scorpion Mud Turtle, Mexican Giant Musk Turtle, Central American Snapping Turtle, Furrowed Wood Turtle, and the Meso-American Slider – representing seven of Belize’s nine freshwater turtles.

We look forward to you joining us in Belize for the June/July 2023 BFREE and TSA-NAFTRG Turtle Survey in the jungle!

DATES

June 30 – July 10, 2023 – OPEN

Spaces are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Deposits will be accepted beginning January 30, 2023. Participants are required to book their own transportation to BFREE, including international airfare to the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) and domestic airfare to Savannah (INB).

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.
  • All participants are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

CONTACT

Questions, please contact Eric Munscher, Director of the Turtle Survival Alliance’s – North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group (TSA-NAFTRG) at

emunscher@turtlesurvival.org

ITINERARY

  • Day One: Arrive at BZE by 1:30 PM, fly to INB at 3:30 PM (exact flight time to be updated in 2023). Transportation provided from INB to the BFREE 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 – Ten: 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 Eleven: Breakfast followed by transportation to INB for a domestic flight back to BZE.

COSTS

The costs are $1,600 per participant.

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
  • Round-trip 4×4 transportation from Savannah Airport (INB) to the BFREE Field Station and back on the day of departure.
  • 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-NAFTRG-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 3, 2023. The final payment is due by May 1st, 2023. To register for this program, read the Booking Terms and Conditions on the next page.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
www.bfreebz.org

www.turtlesurvival.org
www.facebook.com/naftrg

BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

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 2023 Turtle Survey at BFREE is $1,600 per person. These covered costs per person include accommodations, meals, and guided tours of BFREE. Program Fees Do Not include the following: international airfare to BZE, roundtrip domestic airfare with Maya Island Air to Savannah (INB), soft drinks and beers, COVID-19 Tests 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 60-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 60-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 3, 2023. Final payment for Participants is due by May 1, 2023. Payments should be made at www.givebutter.com/turtletour

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 COVID-19, specifically 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, COVID-19 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 1:30 PM on the first day of the program. On the program’s final day, international departure flights should not depart BZE before noon.

COVID-19 Policy.

All guests must adhere to the Government of Belize’s COVID-19 health and safety protocols at the time of their visit to Belize, as well as those from the departure destination. BFREE is not liable to cover or absorb losses associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Cancellations 30-days or prior to the departure date due to events directly relating to COVID-19, specifically international and university travel restrictions and border closings, will be refunded 50% of the program’s total cost minus the deposit.  All visitors to BFREE are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Info Session.

Turtle Survival Alliance and Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education will host an informational virtual meeting in 2023 for all
confirmed Participants prior to survey. Meeting Date: TBA

Re-wilding Hicatee into Belize’s rivers

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BFREE, with the help of our dedicated partners, implemented three (3) separate Hicatee turtle release events for 2022. The first release event was conducted on the 1st of April 2022 when fifty-five (55) juveniles and hatchlings were released into a river in north central Belize. The release was done by BFREE’s Tom Pop and Jonathan Dubon with the support of community members.

The second release event was conducted on the 2nd of June 2022 when forty five (45) turtles were released into another river system also in north central Belize. The release was conducted by Belize Turtle Ecology Lab (BTEL) and students from Dr. Day Ligon’s Turtle Ecology Lab at Missouri State University, USA.

Hicatee are safely tucked into lidded containers for travel
Visiting researcher, Rob Naczi, helped transport turtles across the Bladen River
Denise Thompson of Belize Turtle Ecology Lab picked up turtles to be released as part of a monitoring program

The third release event was conducted on the 17th of June 2022 and was the biggest release to date. A total of one hundred and twenty-four (124) juveniles were released into the wild in central Belize. BFREE staff, Dr. Ed Boles, Tom Pop, Jonathan Dubon and Barney Hall, were responsible for transporting and releasing all of the turtles. The location was chosen based on two factors. The first factor was that many of the adults that parented the juveniles were from this watershed, and previous data collected confirmed that this population has been heavily depleted. The second factor is related to research. This specific location allows for BFREE and its partner institutions to track and conduct long-term monitoring, and the habitat is healthy and provides the natural requirements needed for the population to rebound over time.

Barney Hall helped with the release of 124 juveniles during his first week of work with BFREE
Tom Pop, Jonathan Dubon, Ed Boles and Barney Hall conducted the largest release of captive born Hicatees to date

Jacob Marlin, BFREE’ Executive Director, states, “The reintroductions or rewilding of captive bred Hicatee from the HCRC at BFREE is a critical part of a much broader effort to prevent the extinction of this critically endangered species of turtle. By monitoring the survivorship and overall health of released turtles, and comparing the results to wild turtles of similar age and size, we can better understand the efficacy of and probability that our program can help re-establish and augment populations that have been severely depleted where they once were abundant.”

Over the last three years, with the support of our partners, BFREE has successfully released 415 captive born and raised Hicatee turtles in five different water bodies in central Belize. These turtles have been reintroduced into two watersheds where their populations have been severely depleted. Our reintroduction programs include both short and long-term monitoring, which will help us determine the success of this project. Several of the releases included the participation of community members to further expand our outreach efforts. 

As always, a special thanks to our partner, Turtle Survival Alliance, for their consistent and faithful support of Hicatee conservation in Belize.

Freshwater and Terrestrial Turtle Survey – Year Two

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by Eric Munscher

This year, we, members of the TSA – North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group (NAFTRG), had a team of ten people fly down to trap turtles on the BFREE private reserve in southern Belize. If you have never been to Belize, I highly recommend it. The country is beautiful and the people are wonderful. Working with the people at the BFREE Field Station on this project has been so much fun.

This is our second year of a planned 10-year survey of freshwater and terrestrial turtle species on BFREE’s 1,153-acre private reserve. Last year, we identified several species range extensions and caught seven of nine freshwater and terrestrial species known in Belize. The survey is valuable information not only for the TSA, NAFTRG and BFREE, but for the country of Belize where very little data exists on many of these species.

Narrow-bridged musk turtle (Claudius angustatus)
Becca Cozad, Georgia Knauss, Maddie Morrison and Collin McAvinchey collect data
Central American snapping turtle (Chelydra rossignonii)
Barney Hall and Eric Munscher return a Central American snapping turtle to its home in the lagoon
Mexican musk turtle (Staurotypus triporcatus)
Stephen Ross and Georgia Knauss compare differences in male and female Meso-american sliders (Trachemys venusta)

During the first 12 days we caught 221 turtles representing 8 species. The holy grail capture of this trip was finding our first Narrow Bridged Musk Turtle (Claudius angustatus), which is a really cool and understudied species of musk turtle. One that is not known from southern Belize. We ended up catching a dozen including some juveniles and a hatchling indicating a viable breeding population.

Our team also helped kick off a new grad student project for Collin McAvinchey who will be staying in Belize for most of the month of July tracking Tabasco Mud turtles (Kinosternon acutum). Collin’s project started off slow due to weather conditions. Finding adult Tabasco Mud Turtles was more of a challenge this year than last year. Still the data he is gathering is surprising and amazing. As of yesterday, he is now tracking ten of these turtles all over the rainforest. For a mud turtle they seem to act more like box turtles….

Collin McAvinchey begins data collection on the Tabasco mud turtle
Tabasco mud turtle (Kinosternon acutum)
Luke Pearson teaches Barney Hall and Mark Canti to draw blood for genetic analysis
Georgia Knauss and crew visit BFREE’s cacao agroforesty project
Nicole Salvatico and Maddie Morrison pause to investigate a skink
Tabitha Hootman holds a Meso-american slider

I am really looking forward to generating our first manuscripts from this work and seeing Collin’s thesis come together. I’m also excited to return next year! A valuable and exciting part of this program was the opportunity for citizen scientists to contribute to a long-term dataset. There will be opportunities next year for additional participation.

Thanks to an amazing crew Arron Tuggle, Madeleine Morrison, Nicole Salvatico, Stephen Ross , Tabitha Barbree Hootman, Luke Pearson, Becca Rádio Cozad, Georgia Knauss, and Collin McAvinchey. Also to the BFREE team: Thomas Pop, Barney Hall, Jonathan Dubon, Heather Barrett, Jacob Marlin, and many others, thank you for all of your efforts and hospitality and making this project such an early success! Finally, thanks to Tyler Sanville for supporting our travel logistics and to Eddie Pop who kept us well fed and always ready to get back out into the field.

To read more about last year’s survey, read Under the Shade They Flourish: Beginning A 10-Year Study in Belize published by SWCA Environmental Consultants and TSA-NAFTRG Survey at BFREE.

New Rearing Pond at the Hicatee Conservation & Research Center

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Designed to study the reproductive biology and to determine if the Central American River turtle could be bred in captivity, the Hicatee Conservation & Research Center opened in 2014 and was met with immediate success when, in the summer of 2015, the first seven hatchlings emerged. This was followed by five hatchlings in 2016, 84 hatchlings in 2017, and 179 in 2018.

The extrusion welder was used to join hard plastic pond liner

The HCRC originally included two large breeding ponds, an overflow pond and several rearing tanks. The small rearing tanks at the center quickly reached capacity and HCRC staff identified an urgent need to provide the necessary space and improved environment for the 2018 hatchlings and the soon to arrive 2019 cohort. After much discussion, it was determined that converting the overflow pond into a large rearing pond for hatchlings and juveniles was the most cost effective and quickest solution to housing all the expected hatchlings now and in the foreseeable future.

We secured funding from Oklahoma City’s Zoo’s Care Grant Program and from Zoo New England to begin pond modifications. Additional support was provided through funding for supplies offered by Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in 2018 and the purchase of a very important piece of machinery was made possible thanks to proceeds from the Turtle Survival Alliance’s 2018 fundraising auction.

Pond modification was slow to get underway due a very wet rainy season. However, during February and March construction took place and 140 turtles were placed in their new home in April. The rearing pond (Pond C) is forty-feet in diameter and approximately six-feet deep at the center. A six-foot perimeter fence will encircle the pond and fresh water is provided by solar powered pumps which were already in place at the facility. We will modify Pond C in the coming months to include a floating island and the planting of food trees and grasses as has been done in Ponds A and B. Our hope is that the facility will offer a healthy environment for all hatchlings produced at the HCRC until they are ready for release into the wild.  

Thanks to the Turtle Survival Alliance for their continued partnership on the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center. Thanks also to project sponsors: Oklahoma City Zoo, Zoo New England and Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

New Rearing Pond at the Hicatee Conservation & Research Center

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Designed to study the reproductive biology and to determine if the Central American River turtle could be bred in captivity, the Hicatee Conservation & Research Center opened in 2014 and was met with immediate success when, in the summer of 2015, the first seven hatchlings emerged. This was followed by five hatchlings in 2016, 84 hatchlings in 2017, and 179 in 2018.

The extrusion welder was used to join hard plastic pond liner

The HCRC originally included two large breeding ponds, an overflow pond and several rearing tanks. The small rearing tanks at the center quickly reached capacity and HCRC staff identified an urgent need to provide the necessary space and improved environment for the 2018 hatchlings and the soon to arrive 2019 cohort. After much discussion, it was determined that converting the overflow pond into a large rearing pond for hatchlings and juveniles was the most cost effective and quickest solution to housing all the expected hatchlings now and in the foreseeable future.

We secured funding from Oklahoma City’s Zoo’s Care Grant Program and from Zoo New England to begin pond modifications. Additional support was provided through funding for supplies offered by Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in 2018 and the purchase of a very important piece of machinery was made possible thanks to proceeds from the Turtle Survival Alliance’s 2018 fundraising auction.

Pond modification was slow to get underway due a very wet rainy season. However, during February and March construction took place and 140 turtles were placed in their new home in April. The rearing pond (Pond C) is forty-feet in diameter and approximately six-feet deep at the center. A six-foot perimeter fence will encircle the pond and fresh water is provided by solar powered pumps which were already in place at the facility. We will modify Pond C in the coming months to include a floating island and the planting of food trees and grasses as has been done in Ponds A and B. Our hope is that the facility will offer a healthy environment for all hatchlings produced at the HCRC until they are ready for release into the wild.  

Thanks to the Turtle Survival Alliance for their continued partnership on the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center. Thanks also to project sponsors: Oklahoma City Zoo, Zoo New England and Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.