Central American River Turtle (Dermatemys mawii)

Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 212528284

Daily and Seasonal Activity Patterns of the Critically Endangered Central American River Turtle (Dermatemys mawii)

Field studies of the Critically Endangered Hicatee have occurred sporadically for 40 years, but the species remains woefully understudied. A better understanding of the species’ ecology and natural history is essential to provide quantitative support for much needed legislative changes to outdated hunting regulations. Our project involves collecting activity cycle data throughout an entire calendar year, and we intend to provide the results of our research the Belize Fisheries Department to aid in restricting hunting regulations within Belize that are presently extremely lax (1-month closed season in a month that is not favored by hunters). By quantifying when Hicatee are active we can identify times when they are most exposed to hunting pressure.