Animals around every corner, coatimundis that wear perfume, a bird taller than you, bugs that taste like mint and a Jaguar that high-fives! Madi could barely contain her excitement even though this was her fourth visit to the Belize Zoo.
This time around she knew it would be special, because it always is when the founder of the zoo gives the tour. Madi remembered feeding monkeys and baby tapirs in the past and couldn’t wait to see what surprises Ms. Sharon had for her this time.
Indy the Tapir was waiting for us at “Tapir Town” as if he knew we were coming. Have you ever taken a selfie with a Tapir? Indy was so happy we had carrots that he didn’t seem to mind all the cameras in his face.
The animals at the Belize Zoo all have a story to tell. It’s how they educate us as we walk along the wooded paths and get completely immersed in the animals’ habitats. You can find their stories written all over the zoo. Madi’s favorite story is about April the Tapir. She was rescued by Ms. Sharon and together they taught children all about our National Animal for 30 years.
A few steps outside of “Tapir Town” there were monkeys swinging in the trees. Not close enough to feed them this time, but it’s part of what makes this Zoo so special. The animals run the show.
The birds were a lot more willing to visit with us. The peanuts we had for them may have had something to do with that. Madi did not miss the opportunity to feed the beautiful Scarlet Macaw or the friendly yellow head parrots. She did have to pass on eating the minty flavored termites, maybe next time!
Lucky Boy the Jaguar was next on our tour. The last time we saw him he looked skinny and fragile. He had just been rescued and we were happy to see that after much needed care and attention, Lucky Boy is now a big happy healthy Black Jaguar. He even gave us “high-fives”.
There were so many animals to visit and so much to read on the trails that we found ourselves wondering around for a while even after Ms. Sharon’s tour was over. Looking back on our adventure the travel bloggers definitely all see why the Belize Zoo is lovingly called “The best little zoo in the world”.
Travel Bloggers Behind the Scenes
More of Madi’s Past Belize Zoo Adventures
