Population Density and Health Assessment of Black Howler Monkeys at Community Baboon Sanctuary in Belize

Beneficiary:         Community Baboon Sanctuary (CBS) with Center for Engaged Learning Abroad (CELA) and Animal Management – Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center

Funds Awarded: $19,588.28

Grant Type:         Research

Project Location: Community Baboon Sanctuary

Summary:           Like the tapir, the black howler monkey is also considered endangered.  Since the establishment of the Community Baboon Sanctuary, this community led initiative to protect the black howler monkey from extinction has resulted in a steady rise in the population of black howler monkeys in the area.  This research will establish a current population count of howler monkey within the Community Baboon Sanctuary via a complete census count.  It will further assess the health of the monkeys by monitoring for parasites, stress hormone levels and analyzing fecal samples.  These results will contribute towards greater community understanding of the howler monkey species as well as establish decisions for management of the protected area and the monkey population.