By Belize Live News Staff: There is tragic news out of southern Belize this morning, as a baby ocelot was found dead near Mile 16 on the Southern Highway, just one day after a jaguar was struck and killed in nearly the same location.
The discovery was made around 6:30 AM by Belizean tour guide Ricky Pereira, who came across the lifeless body while traveling the route. The incident has once again sparked concerns about the growing number of roadkill cases involving Belize’s endangered and elusive wild cats.
The Forestry Department and the Belize Audubon Society have been notified and are responding to the scene. Both agencies have thanked Pereira for quickly reporting the incident and for his continued dedication to wildlife awareness.
Conservationists are urging the public, especially drivers traveling near Hopkins and the surrounding southern corridor, to be extremely cautious—especially during dawn and dusk, when these animals are most active.
Belize is home to five species of wild cats, including the jaguar and ocelot, both of which are considered near-threatened or vulnerable due to habitat loss and vehicle collisions.
Authorities and environmental groups are calling for immediate consideration of wildlife crossings, better road signage, and speed regulation in ecologically sensitive zones.
