Frederick The Tapir Saved, Released Back into the Wild 

An injured tapir’s return to the wild is being hailed as a powerful example of community-led conservation in Belize.

The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center shared the story of an adult male tapir, affectionately known as “Frederick.”

Frederick was first found in January in Blue Creek, Orange Walk, suffering from a severe infestation of New World screwworm and in poor condition.

Authorities, including the Belize Forest Department and the Belize Agricultural Health Authority, were alerted of Frederick’s condition and confirmed the diagnosis.

Too weak to be moved, the animal remained in the community, where the Dyck family provided food and a secure space for treatment by wildlife experts.

“I was fortunate to be involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of this tapir,” said David Dyck. “It has been rewarding to help and nurture him back to health.”

Frederick was released over the weekend in March 21 into the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area after months of treatment.

Dyck urged communities, saying, “I just want to tell people around us in our communities and neighboring communities to observe wildlife, especially now with the screwworms affecting us. There are animals that need our help.”