A devastating wildlife-vehicle collision on Belize’s Hummingbird Highway has resulted in the death of a pregnant Baird’s tapir, the country’s national animal, marking the first recorded tapir road mortality of 2026. The incident occurred near Sibun Bridge late Monday night and was reported by staff from The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant.
Conservation organization The Belize Tapir Project confirmed the tragic event after performing a necropsy that revealed the deceased female was carrying a full-term calf weighing approximately 20 pounds. This single collision effectively claimed two lives from the vulnerable species.
The growing infrastructure development throughout Belize has created increasing dangers for wildlife as expanded roadways fragment their natural habitats. Conservation experts emphasize that these transportation corridors present lethal obstacles for animals while simultaneously creating hazardous conditions for motorists.
This recent incident represents the third tapir fatality documented in this particular area, amplifying calls from environmental advocates for improved wildlife protection measures. Conservation groups are urging implementation of specialized infrastructure including wildlife crossings, underpasses, and more ecologically-conscious road planning to mitigate future tragedies.
The Belize Tapir Project issued a statement framing this loss as a somber reminder of the urgent need for coexistence strategies: “As we move forward in 2026, let this loss renew our commitment to safer roads for both people and wildlife.”