Junior 2009

 We stopped at Belize Zoo, 29 acres of jungle fenced into enclosures with paths between, the only chance most, Belizean and tourist alike, have to see the iconic big ones. For US$10 each, we were let into a cage within the jaguar enclosure, and Junior, a two-year-old born at the zoo to a cattle-killing mother, was lured near with offerings of chicken feet. Keepers had handled him for his first three months, but said that he grew too big—look at those teeth—so most of the work they do with him now is through the fence, but Junior is still tame enough that we could touch his fur and feet through the mesh.

Other exhibits were as fascinating: a Jabiru stork, toucan, tapir, and most impressive, a Harpy eagle, more than three feet in height with a wingspan exceeding six feet. On our way out, we met a keeper with a boa we could handle, and Maren did.

The zoo was created by Sharon Matola, an American-born biologist, who was a wrangler for a Belizean documentary film.  In 1983, to prevent the animals being killed after filming was completed, she kept them herself and to earn funds for food and shelter started showing them in what grew into the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center.  Sometime after our visit Scholastic published a book about Junior.

 Scholastic Reader Level 2: Junior Buddy  By Juliana, Isabella, and Craig Hatkoff. Format: Paperback

4.9 out of 5 stars (11)  Part of: Scholastic Reader, Level 2 (114 books)

Scholastic:  “Junior Buddy is an adorable jaguar born at The Belize Zoo that has become one of their star attractions and somewhat of a local celebrity. He loves to perform for the crowds, including doing summersaults! More importantly, Junior Buddy is considered an animal diplomat at the zoo and is a critical part of their jaguar education program that involves teaching local school children about the importance of conservation.”

 

• Posted: Friday, December 13, 2019
• 4:41 pm

By BBN Staff: The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center (TBZ) sadly announced today the passing of its 12-year-old Jaguar, Junior Buddy.

Junior Buddy passed away from heart failure yesterday evening.

The exact cause of the heart failure remains unknown until further diagnostic testing is conducted.

“It’s a sad day for all of us. Our animals are like members of our family and losing a family member is tough! Junior Buddy was an exceptional ambassador for his species and liked to interact with guests; he will be missed by many” said Sharon Matola, the Founding Director of The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center.

Junior Buddy touched the hearts of countless students and visitors from across the globe. 

The Belize Zoo is grateful that Junior Buddy was part of their community for the last 12 years.

Plans are being made for another Belize Zoo Jaguar to take on the role of Jaguar Ambassador, once proudly held by Junior Buddy.

Sharon Matola (June 3, 1954 – March 21, 2021) graduated from New College of Florida in 1981 with a degree in biology.  She died of a heart attack at a hospital in Belmopan, Belize, on March 21, 2021, age 66.

 

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