Belize Crocodiles

Description:

New Report by Dr. Thomas Rainwater suggests a possible decline in the population of C. acutus in Turneffe Atoll

Crocodiles are often referred to as living dinosaurs having existed nearly 200 million years. They have survived extinction events such as the ice age but today the American Crocodile is endangered throughout its range. Belize may be one of its last strongholds, and the largest population in Belize occurs in Turneffe Atoll. The Oceanic Society is working with Dr. Stephen Platt on a long-term monitoring program to detect population trends and provide recommendations for effective conservation strategies.

Volunteers on this project will assist the researcher collecting information on the distribution and abundance of crocodiles in Turneffe Atoll, assess reproductive success, and collect ecological data on which to base an effective conservation strategy. We will conduct evening and nighttime spotlight surveys to search for crocodiles and their nests. If nests are located, we will excavate the nests to count the eggs. We will also search for and count crocodile hatchlings. Once hatchlings are sighted, our experienced researcher will capture select hatchlings for a brief period to be measured and marked, with the assistance of volunteers.

Volunteers can choose from multiple tasks and will be trained in the use of equipment and sampling techniques. Daylight hours include presentations on crocodile biology and ecology and free time to swim, snorkel, and of course rest up from our nighttime activities. Energetic volunteers can also assist with the concurrent sea turtle research project. The program is best suited for hardy, active individuals. Headquarters for this project are at the Oceanic Society Field Station. Accommodations are in beachfront cabanas offering double occupancy rooms with private baths.

Itinerary:

Day 1:
Belize City/Blackbird Caye.

Day 2:
Morning methods training. Evening spot-light survey for crocodiles.

Day 3 thru 7:
Daily crocodile evening and nighttime boat surveys, nest excavations, and hatchling counts and measurements.

Day 8:
Blackbird Caye/Belize City.

Optional Extensions: