In this episode, we sit down with Ben Sept, a dedicated board member and full-time volunteer at ACES Wildlife Rescue, a non-profit organization permitted by the Belize Forest Department.
Originally from Canada, Ben visited belize for 6 months, little did they know that 2 months in they would realize that Belize was going to be their new permanent home. They moved to Belize in 2015 with his wife and three kids, and soon after, the entire family became deeply involved with ACES.
But what exactly is ACES, and who are the people behind it? Ben shares the inspiring story of Christina and Chris, the passionate pillars, who have dedicated their lives to giving the island's wildlife a voice and a safe haven. He reflects on his personal journey to Belize, his work with the rescue team, and the challenges they face protecting local wildlife, particularly the crucial role that crocodiles play in the ecosystem.
Ben takes us down memory lane, recounting his encounters with the island’s unique wildlife and sharing the tireless efforts that go into ACES' rescue missions. We also explore the impact of local development on wildlife and discuss how we, as a community, can help ACES continue their critical work.
With the recent passing of Chris, this episode serves as a tribute to his remarkable legacy and the urgent need for continued support for ACES.
We’ve included timestamps (bottom of the descriptions) to help guide you through this special, extended episode—one that is essential viewing for anyone who cares about the future of wildlife and the environment on the island.
Join us as we raise awareness and learn how you can volunteer or contribute to this incredible cause.
Want to volunteer or donate to ACES?
Contact info: +501 623-7920
Info@AcesBelize.org
Donate (US tax deductible): AcesWildlifeRescue.org/donate
Donate in belize to our Atlantic Bank account:
Aces Wildlife Rescue
2110007416
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AcesWildlifeRescue?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Biggest donors:
Fondation Brigitte Bardot
SPCA - International
ECI Development
The Truck Stop
FOLLOW US:
The Gringa & Local Belize Podcast
Belize Lifestyle & Experiences
Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal
Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s
Follow us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegringaandlocal/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegringaandlocal
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tgalbz
TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@tglbelize
Email: TheGringaAndLocal@gmail.com
Website: https://the-gringa-local-belize.captivate.fm
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gringa-local-belize/id1709718641
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5i5DS3J1AuuaLPBUxlPhe4?si=5e8b077b2f154dac
TIMESTAMPS/ CHAPTERS:
00:00 - What & Who is Aces?
04:12 - Crocs at ACES care
08:18 - Crocs & Humans In the Island
12:07 - Positive Encounters W/Aces
14:19 - Crocs Intelligence & Education in the Island
19:10 - Crocs Population Survey
21:42 - Crocs Reproduction & Characteristics
26:49 - Island Development & Restoration
33:21 - Volunteering at ACES
38:30 - The ACES Team
42:31 - Selfless Love - Chris & Christina
45:21 - ACES RELOCATION
48:17 - Croc Or Alligator?
49:56 - Island Talk
52:41 - Mainland Fun
54:15 - What if you were Mayor of the Island?
57:17 - Conclusion
#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving
