The Belize Zoo: Wildlife, Conservation, and Stories of Belize’s Native Species

Located along the Western Highway, approximately 40 minutes from Belize City, the Belize Zoo offers a rare opportunity to encounter the country’s native wildlife in a conservation-focused environment.
Set within tropical forest, the zoo combines natural landscape with carefully designed enclosures, allowing visitors to experience Belize’s biodiversity in a contextual and educational way.

Unlike many zoological parks around the world, the Belize Zoo houses only species native to Belize. Today, it is home to more than 175 animals representing around 48 species, most of which have been rescued, rehabilitated, born in the zoo, or transferred from other facilities.

For visitors staying in Belize City, the Belize Zoo offers one of the most accessible and meaningful ways to understand the country’s ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Origins Rooted in Rescue and Education

The Belize Zoo was founded in 1983 by conservationist Sharon Matola. Its origins were unexpectedly modest: a small group of animals left behind after the filming of a wildlife documentary. Rather than releasing animals unable to survive in the wild or euthanizing them, Matola chose to care for them, gradually transforming the initiative into a permanent wildlife center.

Over time, the zoo’s mission expanded beyond rescue. It became a space dedicated to environmental education, public awareness, and conservation advocacy, helping Belizeans and visitors alike understand the importance of protecting native species and habitats.

Encountering Belize’s Wildlife

Walking through the Belize Zoo feels less like visiting a conventional zoo and more like moving through Belize’s ecosystems. Shaded paths lead through forested areas where mammals, birds, and reptiles inhabit environments designed to reflect their natural habitats.

Among the mammals are Belize’s national animal, the Baird’s tapir, as well as jaguars, pumas, ocelots, margays, jaguarundis, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, coatimundis, peccaries, deer, otters, pacas, and kinkajous.

Birdlife includes scarlet macaws, toucans, harpy eagles, owls, hawks, and king vultures, while reptiles range from American crocodiles and iguanas to boa constrictors and venomous snakes.

The diversity of species reflects Belize’s extraordinary biodiversity, which spans rainforests, wetlands, savannas, and river systems.

Animals with Stories and Names

Beyond species, the Belize Zoo is known for individual animals whose stories have shaped its identity.

One of the most iconic residents was April, a female Baird’s tapir rescued as a young animal in 1983. She became a symbol of conservation in Belize, and her birthday inspired the celebration of National Tapir Day.

Jaguars have also played a central role in the zoo’s history. Junior Buddy, born at the Belize Zoo as part of the Problem Jaguar Rehabilitation Program, became an ambassador for his species and helped educate visitors about human–wildlife coexistence.

Among smaller wildcats, the zoo’s jaguarundis have included individuals named Nina, Shadow, Buster, and Cornellia, highlighting the zoo’s focus on enrichment and individual animal care.

These personal stories transform the zoo from a collection of animals into a living narrative of rescue, adaptation, and conservation.

Conservation Beyond Exhibition

The Belize Zoo is not only a place to observe wildlife but also an active participant in conservation initiatives.

Programs such as the Harpy Eagle Restoration Project and the Problem Jaguar Rehabilitation Program aim to support endangered species and reduce conflict between wildlife and human communities.

The Tropical Education Center, affiliated with the zoo, promotes research and environmental education, reinforcing the zoo’s role as both a scientific and cultural institution.

A Cultural and Natural Experience Near Belize City

Situated on 29 acres of forest along the Western Highway, the Belize Zoo offers an experience shaped by sound, light, and landscape.
Bird calls, forest shadows, and quiet observation define the rhythm of the visit, creating an environment that feels immersive without being remote.

Its proximity to Belize City makes it an accessible excursion for travelers seeking to connect with Belize’s wildlife without venturing far from urban life.

Experiencing the Belize Zoo from The Palms

For guests staying at The Palms, the Belize Zoo offers a meaningful way to explore Belize’s natural heritage within a short journey from the city.

At The Palms, curated visits and nature-focused experiences such as the Belize Zoo can be arranged for guests seeking to discover Belize’s biodiversity with insight and ease.