A weekly column that brings you information about the critters of Belize and the Caribbean

There is nothing more relaxing then a stroll on the beach. There is something about the vast expanse of the horizon that allows your worries to drift over that unseen ledge, temporally disappearing from heart and mind. Accompanying you along the way are the creatures who call this scene of serenity home. Above you soaring birds call out in screeching song, while longlegged shorebirds scamper on the beach, escorting you along the way. Crabs and critters scurry as you approach, and often when you look closely into the clear shallow waters you spot bright little tropical fish, quickly darting to their favorite hiding place. They are the ambassadors of the beach, there to join you during your quest of sand and sun. As constant companions, these beach buddies welcome you to their home in their own unique way.

Perhaps you have wondered just who these creatures are? In the following series, we take the opportunity to acquaint you with these common critters who lead uncommon lives. Like a new friend, this information will give you the chance to get to know your “beach buddies” a little better while exploring the beaches of Ambergris Caye.

Click for AnimalZ of the Reef A-Z, animals of the Belize reef

• Belize Animals, overview
• Brown Pelicans, Double-crested Cormorants, Shorebirds, Sandpipers, Plovers and Stilts, Frigatebirds
• Laughing Gulls, Ospreys, Great Kiskadees, Great Blue Herons
• Blue Land Crabs, Yellowtail damselfish, Grunts, Needlefish
• Red Fire Ants – Beware!
• Birding
• Collared Peccary
• Queen Conch
• The Jaguarundi
• The Kinkajou
• The Great Kiskadee
• The Manatee
• Moray Eel
• The Ocelot
• The Olive Throated Parakeet
• Red Eyed Tree Frog
• The Speckled Racer
• The Tamandua or Collared Anteater
• The Tapir
• The Tayra
• Hawksbill Turtle Nesting at Manatee Bar
• The Vampire Bat
• The Keel-billed Toucan
• The Beasts of Belize
• Deadly Snakes, Killer Bees & Bloodsucking Bugs
• The Most Endangered Species in Belize
• 10 Incredible Snapshots of Belizean Wildlife
• Photographs of Belizean Wildlife
• Ambergris Caye Field Guide

Cards of the sharks and coral reef creatures of Belize. Click images for larger versions