Did you know? Belizeans love giving nicknames to local critters. When you visit the country, not only will you be getting picturesque views and delectable food, but you’ll also be extending your vocabulary! Here, the resident wildlife boast monikers as colorful and vibrant as the country itself, from the more infamous creatures to beloved four-legged friends! These are some common Belizean nicknames for animals found in the country.
1. Fer-de-Lance: “Tommy Goff”
Image by Richard Seaman (via Ambergris Caye)
Meet the fer-de-lance, or as most Belizeans know it, the “Tommy Goff”, found across much of Central America. Though it’s known throughout Belize by a rather common-sounding name, it is among the country’s eight venomous snakes with a bite that packs quite a punch. The “Tommy Goff” nickname is a classic case of turning danger into charm. The fer-de-lance is also known as “yellowjaw.”
2. Green Iguana: “Bamboo Chicken”
Photo courtesy of Hamanasi
The majestic green iguana gets a culinary makeover with the title “bamboo chicken.” For many, iguana meat (and eggs) is considered a local delicacy, hence the humourous nickname. Many note its distinctive taste as similar to chicken and cook it as their choice of protein in a meal. Today, iguanas are protected under the Belize Wildlife Protection Act, and a license is needed to hunt and sell them.
3. Boa Constrictor: “Wowla”
Image from the Belize Zoo Blog
As you encounter the boa constrictor, prepare to be wowed—literally! Belizeans call it the “wowla,” turning a potentially nerve-wracking moment into an exclamation of surprise. While nonvenomous, the wowla’s bite is still painful, but although their size can give you quite a fright, they are non-aggressive animals. This serpent is the largest found in Belize, with some measuring twelve feet. Keep an eye out for the wowla as you hike through the dense jungles.
4. Dog/Mutt: “Pat Licka”
Pups line off on the seaside promenade. Image via Pampered Paws
Our four-legged friends aren’t just dogs or mutts in Belize; they’re “pat lickas.” You may wonder, “Is there a deeper meaning to this name?” The answer is yes, and no! Simply put, most mutts in Belize are called “pat lickas” after the phrase “pot licker.” The reason is simple: they lick all the family’s pots clean as their dinner! These furry companions are loyal to those who feed them any scraps of their meal.
5. Coatimundi: “Squash/Quash”
Photo courtesy of The Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center
The cute coatimundi in Belize becomes the “squash” or “quash.” It’s always a fun sight to spot a group of these furry critters late at night crossing highways or diving into nearby bushes. It’s even cuter when you see a big mama coati leading her little ones in a straight line! In northern parts of Belize, they are also referred to as “pizote.”
Similar: Practice Your Kriol with These Belizean Proverbs and Sayings
6. Baird’s Tapir: “Mountain Cow”
Feed tapirs at The Belize Zoo! Photo by Duarte Dellarole
Meet the Baird’s Tapir, fondly known as the “Mountain Cow.” Keep this creature in mind, as it is one of Belize’s national animals! Forget the plains; these majestic creatures roam the hills. You can also encounter them at The Belize Zoo, where they even have a Tapir Happy Hour every day from 10 am to 11 am! Interact with these gentle creatures and feed them their favorite fruits.
7. Agouti Paca: “Royal Rat/Gibnut”
Photograph courtesy Noel Escalante
Last but not least, the Agouti Paca reigns supreme as the “Royal Rat.” It’s a regal title that comes from Belizean history. In 1985, the late Queen Elizabeth II visited newly independent Belize and for her dinner, was served agouti meat in a stew. An odd choice? Maybe. But the Queen went on to say she liked it, and that it had a similar taste to rabbit. Since then, this small creature has been called the Royal Rat, and what a fitting name indeed!
As you traverse Belize’s jungles, keep these delightful nicknames in mind, turning every wildlife encounter into a chuckle-worthy moment. Because in Belize, even the critters take center stage in the comedy of the wild.
Featured Photo by Duarte Dellarole
