The sanctuary contains 6,600 ha (16,000 acres) of lagoons, creeks, log wood swamps, broad leaf forest and pine savanna, home to hundreds of species of wildlife.

The sanctuary protects globally endangered species including the Central American river turtle (locally known as the hickatee), Yucatán black howler monkey and yellow-headed amazon.

After the young fledge, in April and May, the birds from the northern and central parts of Belize congregate at Crooked Tree lagoons.

In July he submitted his report and proposal for the establishment of a Natural Area Reserve at Crooked Tree Lagoon.

[3] On August 22, 1998, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary was declared Belize's first Ramsar site based on the wetland's significance, especially as waterfowl habitat.