January 12, 2023

Janet Brown: An abundant amount of ancient horse conch are found within the Marco Gonzalez Maya Site on the southern end of Ambergris Caye. MG dates back to a minimum of 100BC. Some of the shells have been "manipulated", meaning the tops were severed (maybe to make rings from the circular shape?) and small circular cuts in the sides to make game board chips. We have also found conch tools like 4" spoons (straight shaft ending in a ladle shape) and pieces sharpened to be a pick. (Note the bird like image on the full ring) Marco is magical!

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The soft sandy beach just outside your door at Mata Rocks Resort beckons you to enjoy our sparkling blue Caribbean Sea. Whether you want the privacy of a honeymoon couple or access to adventure, our peaceful and serene beachfront hotel invites you to be here with us on Ambergris Caye in Belize. Like going to visit good friends, you'll feel comfortable and welcomed at Mata Rocks Resort by Liz and Terry, your hosts. You'll find Mata Rocks a haven of personal comfort away from the crowds.

Huge horse conch shell

This large, heavy specimen of Turbinella Angulata Lightfoot measures about 325 mm and has the operculum. This shell weighs over 4 pounds. Fishermen fishing off Turneff Islands, British Honduras found it February 1963.

Photograph courtesy Albert Paul Avila

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