Introduction
Nestled in the rainforests of Belize, Community Baboon Sanctuary (CBS) is home to the world’s largest population of black howler monkeys. Stretching across 70 square miles, this unique conservation initiative is dedicated to preserving this endangered species while allowing local communities to benefit from the wildlife and its natural resources.
About Community Baboon Sanctuary
Community Baboon Sanctuary (CBS) was founded in 1985 by Robert Horwich and his wife, Sharon Matola. The initiative was formed to provide a safe habitat for the black howler monkey, an endangered species native to Central America. The sanctuary is the largest protected area for this species in the world, covering 70 square miles of rainforest.
The sanctuary is located in the Cayo District of western Belize. It is managed by the Belizean non-profit organization, The Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center. CBS works in collaboration with the Belizean government and local communities to promote conservation and sustainable land use.
The sanctuary is comprised of four core areas: the Baboon Reserve, the buffer zone, the inner zone, and the outer zone. The Baboon Reserve is the main area of the sanctuary, where the black howler monkeys live in their natural habitat. The buffer zone is a protected area between the reserve and the inner zone. The inner zone is composed of farms, villages, and other areas where human activity is allowed. The outer zone encompasses the surrounding area of unprotected forest.
Safeguarding the Black Howler Monkey
The black howler monkey is a critically endangered species. It is estimated that fewer than 10,000 individuals remain in the wild. The main threats to the species are habitat destruction, hunting, and the illegal pet trade.
CBS works to protect the black howler monkey and its habitat. The sanctuary provides a safe refuge for the species, where it can live and breed in its natural environment. The sanctuary also works to educate local communities about the importance of conserving the species and its habitat.
In addition, CBS works to create sustainable livelihoods for local communities. The sanctuary provides employment opportunities for the local people, and encourages them to use natural resources in a sustainable way.
Visiting the Community Baboon Sanctuary
The Community Baboon Sanctuary offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe the black howler monkey in its natural habitat. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on guided tours, which are offered daily. The tour includes a visit to the Baboon Reserve, where visitors can observe the monkeys in their natural environment.
The sanctuary also offers educational programs, which allow visitors to learn more about the conservation of the species and its habitat. In addition, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of the rainforest and experience the local culture.
Conclusion
Community Baboon Sanctuary (CBS) is a unique conservation initiative dedicated to preserving the critically endangered black howler monkey. The sanctuary provides a safe habitat for the species, while working to create sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on guided tours and learn more about the species and its habitat. This is a special opportunity to observe this endangered species in its natural environment.