About This Project

The project focuses on the threatened Agami Heron (Agamia agami) in southern Belize. It will be a four week long study during their breeding season. Little is known about the Agami Herons activity in the northern portion of their range.This specific group of herons uses land that is not currently protected for conservation and could be at risk in the near future. This research will help conserve this important breeding ground for the threatened bird.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

The Agami Heron is a mid-sized heron of Central and South America. They are currently listed as vulnerable. The Belize Foundation for Research and Environmental Education hosts a summer breeding population. BFREE is located in the rainforest of the Maya Mountains. It is a private field site dedicated to environmental education and conservation. These herons are one of the most northern breeding populations on record.

It has been documented that the herons are nesting at BFREE, but it is unknown how many of them are there. The Agamis share a lagoon with resident Boat-billed Herons. They are also uncommon birds, so the interaction between the species is intriguing. It is important to learn how the Agamis coexist with other species.

What is the significance of this project?

The land these herons use is not protected and could be at risk. This research could go a long way in conserving this land for them. It will provide key information on how the Agami interact with other animals. I will be able to make observations about breeding success and predation.

Agamis in Belize are understudied and the existence of this breeding ground is important for improving their conservation. There has been research projects in South America, but very little has been done in the northern range. Combining this study with the southern research will work toward an understanding of their population dynamics. This one month project will initiate one of the first long-term studies of Agamis.

What are the goals of the project?

1. Begin a long-term research program for Agami Herons at BFREE and possibly other parts of Belize

2. Record the number of Agami Herons present at this specific breeding ground. Record detailed information about their breeding habits and behaviors.

3. We want to observe them for the entire time they are at the BFREE facility. To help understand factors that may increase or decrease their abundance or breeding success.

4. I will try to publish this research in order to help conserve Agami Herons throughout their range.

5. I will have a large amount of photo and video documentation to help spread awareness and help conservation.