Overhunting of Iguana and Hicatee

Some Belizeans have reportedly been engaged in wide-scale commercial hunting of iguanas and hicatee, species that are endangered and on the brink of extinction. The Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations announced today it is concerned about this happening, and that some individuals are uploading this to social media.  APAMO reminds everyone the closed season for hunting iguanas is from the first of February to the thirtieth of June each year. The freshwater turtle is protected under the Fisheries Act with a closed hunting season from the first of May to the thirty-first of May. Furthermore, under the Act, individuals are prohibited from having more than three turtles at any one time. APAMO warns that the over-hunting and hunting of these species during the closed season will cause a drastic decline of the wildlife population. Witnesses to any such illegal activities can contact the Forest Department.