Bird Species in Belize

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This past week in Belize was undoubtedly one of the best experiences I have ever had. In the special topics biology class, I learned so much about the ecology, culture, and history of the newly established country. Not to mention, I obtained a new respect for ornithology and a new interest in birds. About the size of Manhattan and with a population of almost 350,000 people, Belize surprisingly holds approximately 500 species of birds. We were able to spot 135 species of birds during our stay and also learned about a few mutualism relationships.
One of the greatest mutualism relationships is between the ants and the bullhorn acacias. The ants live in the hollow bullhorns and protect the tree, making sure there is no vegetation to harm it. In return, the acacia creates nectar and Beltian bodies, the yellow tips of the leaves and rich in protein, for the ants to eat and prosper. It is quite possible for both parties to live separately; however, the ants and the acacias thrive when they are together.
Another tree and ant mutualism is the Cecropia (trumpet) tree and the Azteca ants. The ants will protect its host, and the tree will provide food and shelter in its hollow internodes. Also, the Cecropia tree is favored among many birds. It also grows three feet a year and is an early successional tree.
Next, the strangler figs are an interesting plant and have their own cut-throat methods of survival. As the name implies, the figs will strangle their host plant and take over. The host plant can die and leave a hollow space inside the strangler fig. They fruit all year, and their seeds are poisonous and spread by birds. The devil’s gut cactus also does the same thing by enclosing in on a host tree. They are called this because of their a...

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...in cow, and more closely-related to a horse and rhino. Mahogany is the national tree, a grand tree of great height and does not mature until 60 to 80 years of age. Black orchid is the national flower, has a unique shape, and the flowers are long-lasting.
There were a variety of species I was able to see and learn about. I was able to learn how to correctly identify the keel-billed toucan, Magnificent frigates, and great-tailed grackles. Also, I gained a vast amount of knowledge from the class and created new bonds with other talented and dedicated students. I brought home not only souvenirs and photos, but also a new awareness to birds. Their calls, appearances, and behaviors are all very unique and my goal is to be able to recognize birds around my area. This class was an unforgettable experience and expanded my interests and knowledge in the beauty of nature.

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