Date of Graduation

12-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Animal Science

Advisor/Mentor

Apple, Jason

Committee Member/Reader

Rosenkrans, Charles F. Jr.

Committee Member/Second Reader

Willson, John D.

Committee Member/Third Reader

Smith, Kimberly

Committee Member/Fourth Reader

Hill, Jacques

Abstract

Belize is a small country, but it is extremely ecologically diverse. Based on the few studies conducted in Belize, the abundance of mammals is low but diversity is high. Particular findings note the number and identity of species differed between four sites in the Maya Mountains of Belize, indicating that a data set from a single site is not representative of the Neotropical region. Insufficient data is available to estimate current species richness of many areas in Belize, including Billy Barquedier National Park (BBNP). The objective of this study was to explore trapping and documentation methods of terrestrial mammals in BBNP, particularly in Zone 4, and to provide a baseline study of the present species. To accomplish the objectives, four methods were used: 1) direct visual observation; 2) observation of animal tracks; 3) live traps; and 4) game cameras. As expected based on previous studies, endangered species were present amongst the 16 mammal species documented. The various documentation methods presented unique biases towards species, with game cameras capturing the greatest mammal diversity. Further monitoring of animals in BBNP is needed for more accurate information regarding species richness and biodiversity. A controlled, consistent, long-term assessment of the number and composition of mammal species within BBNP could potentially improve management practices and conservation efforts.

Keywords

mammal; mammalia; rainforest; neotropical; jungle; ecology; population; inventory; survey; central america; terrestrial; arboreal; game camera; trapping; live trap; environment; food chain; herbivores; carnivores; rodents; national park; belize; animal; biodiversity; species richness; biology; zoology; service learning

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