Bio-diversity

This project would support the reintroduction of an endangered raptor species to Belize through an educational and training program targeting residents in the communities adjacent to the Rio Bravo Management and Conservation Area lands where the first two specimens will be released. It seeks to complement the ambitious program being undertaken by the Peregrine Fund - Panama, to restore the Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) within the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. This project is designed to incorporate the local communities in every step, with the logic that community involvement in the reintroduction effort is a key factor to its success. The proposed 12-month project, scheduled to begin in June 2003, would have three major components. The first would be an education program designed to inform the community about the reintroduction program and educate residents about the natural history and importance of the species. The second component would be a bird guide training project for community members of Rancho Dolores, with the goal of building local capacity and improving community livelihoods, building on the tourism initiative started by that community while simultaneously serving as a catalyst for garnering interest in the protection of the species by other surrounding communities as they see the tangible benefits of having a program of this nature. The third element of the project would be the development of an on-site Birds of Prey program and Harpy Eagle exhibit at the Belize Zoo, which will help to bring about a greater awareness about Raptors in general and specifically the Harpy Eagle.

Belize