Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary:

Established for the protection of resident and migrant birds, the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is located thirty-miles northwest of Belize City off the Northern Highway in the Belize District. Consisting of a large network of inland lagoons, swamps, and waterways, the sanctuary provides both the abundant food sources and the safe resting area that is necessary to support a large and diverse population of birds.

The most notable migratory resident is the Jabiru Stork. With a wingspan of 10-12 feet, it is the largest flying bird in North America. Luckily, Belize has the largest nesting population of Jabirus in Central America. They begin arriving in November to nest in the lowland pine savannahs. After the young fledge and during the months of April and May, the birds from northern and central Belize congregate at Crooked Tree and Mexico Lagoons. When the rains come, the birds leave to return again in November.

Besides birds, Black Creek on the eastern boundary of the sanctuary provides a home for Black Howler Monkeys, Morelet's Crocodiles, Coatimundis and several species of turtles and iguanas.