Status and conservation of the American crocodile, Crocodylus acutus, in Belize

Abstract

The status of the American crocodile ( Crocodylus acutus) in the coastal zone of Belize was investigated from July 1996 to October 1997. Two hundred and sixty-two crocodiles were observed during spotlight surveys of 952.2 km of the survey route (0.28 crocodiles/km). Encounter rates were highest in the Turneffe Atoll, and low to moderate elsewhere. Most nesting occurs on elevated beach ridges in the Turneffe Atoll. Freshwater and brackish lagoons adjacent to nesting sites provide essential nursery habitat. Despite legal protection, populations are threatened by opportunistic killing, accidental drowning in fishing nets, and habitat destruction, especially the development of critical nesting habitat. Protection of nesting and nursery habitat is of paramount importance for the continued survival of the American crocodile in Belize.