Flora of Runaway Creek

The tropical climate of Belize makes it a perfect habitat for a rich assortment of flora. Roughly 4,000 flowering plants are native to the country, along with over 700 species of trees. Forest covers approximately three-fourths of Belizean territory, almost half of which is still primary forest.

Many common fruit trees important to both biodiversity and the local economy flourish in Belize, including guava, banana, coconut, mango and cashew. A whopping 250 species of orchid alone also inhabit the country.

Unfortunately extensive logging has led to the degradation of trees like mahogany, cedar, pine and logwood. Logging has led not only to species endangerment, but also soil erosion and concurrent water pollution.

Fortunately for the flora of the Runaway Creek Nature Reserve, the Foundation for Wildlife Conservation works hard to protect trees and plant life. One can walk through the reserve enveloped by vegetation, taking in the natural breathtaking beauty. The Runaway Creek Nature Reserve aims to continue protecting its plethora of plants and trees, preserving the flora that has been native to the country for centuries.