The other 25% of the mainland of Belize is basically swampland and mangrove forests.
Think hot, wet, tropical funk smell.
Fecund comes to mind.
Amazing (some places) red water seen through the mangroves.
The color of the water attributed to a certain type of bacteria that grows in the brackish water because of the high salt content. Much the same as the pink lakes we have seen in Australia.
Edge of Mangrove Forest
It is easy to see how the swampy plains are completely flooded out during the rain season.
Into the Mangroves
https://youtu.be/uF0DxMrN4Dc
Through the Mangroves and Under the Water
https://youtu.be/4mSDrAQp4dQ
The Mangrove Forests and Swampy Plains are filled with a rich diversity of animal life. Ibis, Egrets, Brown Pelicans and Frigatebirds...as well as herons and Mangrove Cuckoos. Manatees, monkeys, turtles, anoles, eagles, sea turtles, alligators and crocodiles also call it home.
Little fish use the roots to hide in until they are larger.
Egret
Brown Pelican
Frigatebird
Which looks a little bit like a seagull on steroids.
Mangrove Cuckoo
And the Manatee
Snorkeling with the Manatees
https://youtu.be/gdq2VoQM2r4
I have to admit, I fell in love with these gentle giants in Tampa, Florida and have been smitten ever since!
They have a great Adopt A Manatee Sponsorship Program
https://www.savethemanatee.org/how-to-help/adopt-a-manatee/
that I intend to join later this year.
One of my Life List Items.
And the Belizean Mangrove Forest is also habitat for
Sea Turtles
As well as Crocodiles
No, they don't mind the salty water a bit.
Keep your eyes open.
Next time we will begin to explore the beaches and cayes (pronounced Keyz) of Belize.
Until then...
Hike through the Mangrove on the Boardwalk at Wee Wee Caye
https://youtu.be/n0Q3LslellI
