The Belize Forest Department has issued a press release in which it is advising the public that it is illegal to be consuming Gibnut and Iguana meat at this time of the year. The release comes just in time for the Ruta Maya River Challenge during which many persons in the rural areas of Belize choose to cook and sell game meat.

The Forest department advises that under the Wildlife Protection Act (CAP 220), a license is required to hunt or sell any game species (or bush meat). The department states that temporary Dealer’s Licenses can be obtained for a fee of $100. While the license will allow for the hunting of game meat, only those that are in season will be allowed. Among meats that are out of season are armadillo, gibnut and iguana which are game meats of choice during this time of year, the iguana particularly because of the eggs.

All hunters and vendors are encouraged to continue to apply and obtain the necessary licenses at their nearest Forest Department office prior to the La Ruta Maya River Challenge, as officers will continue to monitor and enforce the laws. For more information regarding the law or licenses, please contact the Forest Department office at 822-1524 or email us at info@forest.gov.bz.

Gibnut was on the menu this week at El Foggon. Hmmmmm.