Posted: Thursday, August 21, 2025. 8:15 am CST.
Stock photo
By Zoila Palma: On August 19, 2025, the Belize Forest Department, in collaboration with the Belize Police Department, conducted an enforcement operation in Belize City that led to the confiscation of a jaguar pelt.
According to a statement, the operation was launched following several tips and concerns from the public, conservation groups, and stakeholders regarding the public sale and display of the jaguar pelt on social media.
During the operation, Lidear Lino was found in possession of the jaguar pelt and has been charged under the Wildlife Protection Act (Cap. 220).
The jaguar pelt was successfully confiscated and secured as evidence.
Preliminary assessments suggest the pelt was taken from a juvenile or female jaguar (Panthera onca), a strictly protected species in Belize.
Jaguars are keystone species, playing a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. They are protected internationally under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), as well as under national laws through the Wildlife Protection Act.
The Belize Forest Department reminds that it is illegal to possess any wildlife, wildlife parts (such as pelts, teeth, or feathers), nests, eggs, or other wildlife derivatives.
The department says that there are no permits that authorize individuals to keep wildlife parts under any circumstances. Offenders are liable to a fine of BZ$10,000.
The Belize Forest Department urges all Belizeans to play their part in protecting wildlife and discouraging illegal trade.
Anyone with information on forest crime is encouraged to report it through the Belize Forest Department social media pages or at the hotline number 610-1524.
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The post Belize Forest Department confiscates Jaguar pelt in Belize City appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Thursday, August 21, 2025. 8:15 am CST. Stock photo By Zoila Palma: On August 19, 2025, the Belize Forest Department, in collaboration with the Belize
The post Belize Forest Department confiscates Jaguar pelt in Belize City appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
