History
The Belize Raptor Research Institute is a non-profit organization started in 2008 by Ryan Phillips, Raptor Biologist, in response to the many threats and lack of information on Neotropical raptor species. The Neotropics holds one of the least understood of all the raptor communities across the globe with basic natural history information lacking for most species.
With Belize having a human population of less than 300,000 and being nearly 50% protected through National Parks, Nature Reserves, Conservation Areas, Forest Reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries it is an ideal location to establish a raptor conservation organization.
BRRI is based in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in the Cayo District on 15 acres where a facility will be constructed by 2011 for researchers and visitors. Currently, BRRI is studying all three hawk-eagle species, the rare Solitary Eagle and Stygian Owl, along with the raptor migration through Belize. Recently, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Center for the Study of Tropical Birds, Inc. who will act as our fiscal sponsor until we receive our own 501(c)3 status. All donations to BRRI are tax-deductible through the Center for Study of Tropical Birds Inc.
Mission
BRRI helps protect neotropical raptors in the northern Central America region through the sound science approach. We strive to learn about raptors in the wild through extensive field research, while educating the local and international public about raptor conservation.
Goals
- Better understand neotropical raptors through sound science, so better management decisions can be made
- Provide education outreach throughout Belize and the region
- Train future conservationists and raptor biologists in field research techniques
- Provide volunteer and internship opportunities for national and international students
- Partner up with local and international conservation groups
- Help protect raptors in the wild through education and research