Belize, known for its diverse ecosystems, is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys. Visitors can observe them in their natural environment. Belize’s conservation efforts ensure these species thrive.
Species of Belizean Monkeys
Belize is home to two primary monkey species: the Yucatan Black Howler Monkey (Alouatta pigra) and the Central American Spider Monkey (Ateles geoffroyi).
The Yucatan Black Howler Monkey, often called “baboon” by locals, is Belize’s largest monkey species. These howlers weigh 15 to 25 pounds and can reach two to three feet in body length, with a tail extending up to three feet. Their fur is black; infants are born brown and darken.
Black howler monkeys are known for their booming calls, amplified by an enlarged hyoid bone in males, which can travel up to three miles. They primarily consume leaves, supplemented by fruits and flowers, living in social groups of four to twelve, occasionally up to twenty.
They are arboreal, moving on all fours through the canopy, often using their prehensile tails as a fifth limb. The IUCN lists the Yucatan Black Howler Monkey as endangered, facing threats from habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal pet trade.
The Central American Spider Monkey, also known as Geoffroy’s Spider Monkey, is recognized by its slender body, long limbs, and an exceptionally long prehensile tail. These monkeys have black fur.
They are highly agile, moving through treetops by brachiating. Spider monkeys are social animals, forming large communities of twenty to forty individuals that often split into smaller foraging groups during the day. Their diet consists mainly of fruits, leaves, and nuts.
The Central American Spider Monkey is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN, due to habitat destruction, fragmentation, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade.
Prime Locations for Monkey Sightings
Belize offers several locations to observe monkeys.
The Community Baboon Sanctuary, near Bermudian Landing, is a prime example. Local landowners manage properties to protect black howler monkeys. Visitors can take guided nature walks and river tours for close encounters.
The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, known as the world’s only jaguar preserve, also hosts howler monkeys. They were reintroduced here after local extinction in the 1970s, a significant conservation success.
Monkey River, in southern Belize, is another excellent location to spot black howler monkeys, often seen along riverbanks or in trees during boat tours.
The Belize Zoo provides an opportunity to see both Black Howler and Spider Monkeys, many rescued or rehabilitated.
Monkeys can also be observed in forested areas surrounding ancient Maya ruins, such as Caracol, Xunantunich, and El Pilar.
Responsible Primate Observation and Conservation
Observing primates requires responsible wildlife viewing practices to ensure their well-being and habitat protection.
Maintain a respectful distance from monkeys and refrain from feeding them, which can alter their natural behaviors and diets. Minimize noise and disturbance to allow them to continue their routines.
In Belize, hunting monkeys or keeping them as pets is illegal, reflecting the country’s commitment to their protection.
Organizations like the Community Baboon Sanctuary and Wildtracks play an important role in primate conservation. The Community Baboon Sanctuary’s community-led model has significantly increased the howler monkey population, a successful example of sustainable ecotourism.
Wildtracks focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and release of howler and spider monkeys, combating illegal wildlife trade and contributing to reintroduction programs. These initiatives highlight how local efforts and responsible tourism contribute to Belize’s primate population viability.