May 9, 2023
The project goal is to contribute to securing the long-term viability of the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) in Belize, aligned with BFSF Strategic Objective 1: Biodiversity Protection. Belize is the last remaining stronghold of the Antillean manatee in Mesoamerica. However, in the last 12 years, increasing impacts on the national population have resulted in the mortality rate exceeding the reproductive rate1, taking it beyond the acceptable range of variation. With anthropogenic impacts on this species increasing, this is significant cause for concern.
Funds from Belize Fund ($BZD)
$,000
Co-financing ($BZD):
$,646
Grantee
WILDTRACKS
Location
Protection For Biodiversity
Thematic Area
Time-frame
May 2023 – April 2024
Project Goal:
Contribute to the long-term viability of the Antillean manatee in Belize.
Project Objectives:
- Strengthen capacity for management of manatees in key protected areas.
- Build capacity of wildlife management authorities in manatee rehabilitation.
- Ensure rescued manatees continue to have the opportunity to contribute to the wild population.
Expected Outputs:
- 10 protected area staff certified in Project Planning, Project Management and Grant Writing.
- At least 3 site-level manatee conservation plans and grant proposals.
- 9 wildlife authority officers trained in manatee rehabilitation.
- Purpose-built facilities supporting ongoing manatee rehabilitation.
- Continued successful return of manatees to the wild population.
GAP Wildtracks Application