Jaguar Spotting In Belize

Many travellers follow the trail of the world’s most elusive big cats and, as home to the world’s first jaguar sanctuary, Belize is a must-visit destination for those looking to spot these felines in the wild.

From Arizona to Argentina, jaguars can be found across the Americas, however Belize is home to one of the world’s healthiest populations. The renowned big cats are the largest in the Western hemisphere and are found living within lowland forests and coastal areas. Despite decreasing numbers across Central America, the anti-poaching laws in Belize and existence of nature reserves such as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary mean that the country’s jaguar population remains healthy. The country is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, and thanks to the big cats’ protected status, Belize provides the perfect setting for spotting the notoriously stealthy cat in the wild.

Perched on the Caribbean coast, Belize is the youngest nation in Central America and home to lush green rainforests, the extensive Maya Mountain range, sublime coastlines and ancient ruins of the Maya kingdom. The extensive networks of national parks, nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries across the country make Belize a dream destination for environmental enthusiasts looking to see some of the world’s most coveted creatures in their natural habitat.

Located in south-central Belize, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is often the first stop on many intrepid wildlife adventurers’ journeys to Central America; the protected region is home to mature forests, fauna and extensive watersheds as well as an incredible array of mammals, reptiles and birds who have made the Eastern slopes of the Maya Mountains their home.

Founded in 1990, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary was the first to set up a protection program for jaguars and is regarded by many to be the leading site for their preservation in the world. The verdant jungle setting provides a safe habitat for the jaguars to establish themselves and reproduce, greatly aiding the stability of the big cat population in the wild.

The Gallon Jug area, part of Central America’s jaguar corridor, provides another phenomenal spot to sight jaguars in the wild. Marc di Brita of Chan Chich Lodge, Belize’s premier jungle retreat is located on a 130,000 acre private reserve in Gallon Jug, shares a few top tips for jaguar spotting in the wild.

Where is the best place in Belize to spot jaguars?

Belize provides the perfect location for those on the lookout for big cats, with over 44% of the land protected as either a nature reserve or national park; there are plenty of opportunities to embrace the beauty of the region and its local inhabitants. Eco resorts provide some of the best opportunities to catch sight of the country’s exotic animals in the wild. Across Belize, lodges tend to employ local guides who have grown up in the region and know the trusted trails like the back of their hands. This extensive first-hand knowledge of the region ensures that visitors have the best possible chance of spotting big cats in the wild.

What time of year is best to spot big cats in Belize?

The rainy season is at its height through June and July, and sees the most activity amongst the big cat population, so visiting through these months definitely heightens your chances of spotting a jaguar in the wild. However, sightings are often reported as late as December if you’re in the right location. For those looking for a little sunshine with their wildlife expedition, the veteran guides at Chan Chich resort recommend October to December as the best time of year to visit. The animals tend to be less nervous during the rainy season which runs from mid-June to November, as the beating of the rain helps to disguise their sound as they prowl through the jungle. Visiting during the tail end of this period has proved successful for many guests at Chan Chich and allows for a little warmth alongside jungle based adventures. It’s always best to remember that, as jaguars are nocturnal creatures, your best chance of spotting one will be late in the evening so be prepared to stay up late.

What other animals can be spotted in the region?

Belize’s jaguar corridor is home to an abundance of species, providing wildlife enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to spot an array of creatures. The nature reserve in which Chan Chich is located is also home to many other members of the big cat family: jaguarundis – a small wild cat native to the region; margays – a small, solitary nocturnal feline; oselots – more commonly known as the dwarf leopard; and cougars. In addition to the big cats, there are over 44 species of bats to be spotted, as well as Yucatan Black Howler and American Spider monkeys, tapirs, grey foxes and coyotes. Beyond the mammal population, the forests of Belize are home to a vast variety of birds ranging from toucans to hawk eagles, black-throated shrike tanagers, tody motmots, and slaty-tailed trogons, perfect for any keen bird aficionado. Keen orthinologists can spot over 570 bird species in nature reserves across Belize, as well as a vast variety of reptiles both in and out of the water, the ever-present howler monkeys as well as their larger feline friends.

Belize is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, thrill seekers and those looking to relax in an exotic and enchanting environment. British tour operator, Belize Revealed, specialises in creating tailor-made travel packages to the region, ranging from single-destination escapes to multicentre adventures. The team is able to use their extensive knowledge of the region to create bespoke itineraries, ensuring that you’re able to make the most of your holiday. From arranging travel and transfers to hotels and excursions, Belize Revealed can help you create a truly individual experience. Contact the team to start planning your next escape at www.belizerevealed.co.uk or on 01932 424252.

By Jeremy Snelling