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Wood Storks |
The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Belize’s
many wildlife reserves. Over 540 species of birds have been
spotted in the country, and at Crooked Tree, it is impossible
not to be impressed by the abundance of birdlife. Founded
in 1984, this sanctuary comprises some 16,400 acres of waterways,
swamps and lagoons, surrounding the village of Crooked Tree
(with a population of approximately 800). The sanctuary
is located about 3 miles off the Northern Highway, at Mile
31. It is managed by the Belize Audubon Society, which is
a non-profit, non-governmental membership organization dedicated
to the promotion of the sustainable use and preservation
of Belize’s natural resources.
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Jabiru
Storks |
There are six lagoons on the west of the highway, including
Calabash Pond, Revenge Lagoon, Western Lagoon, Northern
Lagoon (Crooked Tree Lagoon), Spanish Lagoon and Southern
Lagoon. On the east of the Northern Highway lies the Jones
Lagoon, which is also part of the sanctuary, but not accessible
for tourism.
When driving across the mile long causeway over the Crooked
Tree Lagoon, all types of birds can be spotted. The lagoon
is a natural reservoir in the Belize River Valley, and regularly
floods in the rainy season.
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Black-Necked
Stilts |
During the dry season, the sanctuary is home to thousands
of migratory birds. About 260 species of birds have been
sighted, and the best time to see them is between February
and May. Most migratory birds arrive in November, and leave
before the rainy season starts in July. The largest bird
in the Western Hemisphere, the Jabiru Stork, with a wingspan
of about 9 feet arrives in November. Belize has the largest
nesting population in Central America. Logwood swamps provide
a habitat for several types of herons, including the Boat-billed
Heron and Agami Heron. In addition to many other birds,
two types of ducks also nest here: the Black-Bellied Whistling
Duck and the Muscovy Duck. Black Howler Monkeys, Morelet’s
Crocodiles, and freshwater turtles can also be found throughout
the sanctuary.
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Pink
Roseate Spoonbill, Storks and Egrets |
When visiting Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, be sure to
first sign in at the Visitor’s Center. The collection
of flora and fauna is prohibited, and hunting and fishing
are not permitted. It’s a good idea to arrange for
a guide. He or she will be able to point out inconspicuous
wildlife or nesting areas, but you will also hear about
the history of Crooked Tree, and lots of interesting tales
about the area. A boardwalk and viewing platforms add to
the experience. Certain times of year, you’ll see
birds throughout the day, but generally birding is best
at dawn and dusk. There are several guesthouse type accommodations
in the village, and the people are warm and friendly, and
eager to tell a story.
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Scenic
Crooked Tree Lagoon |
Crooked Tree was once a logging camp, founded by the British
logwood cutters in the 17th century. In the early days,
this village, actually an island was only accessible by
boat. Two stories seem to circulate about the origin of
its name: it was either named after a large crooked tree
(and there are many crooked trees in the village), or some
say it was named after a notorious trio of bandits: “crooked
three”. The village is also famous for its cashews.
Cashew trees grow in abundance here, yielding cashew nuts,
cashew wine, and stewed cashew fruit. The village celebrates
with an annual Cashew Fest in May. There is food, music,
lots of dancing and celebration, and of course, lots of
cashew.
Places nearby: 
Interests:
