Why are animals from the rainforest becoming endangered?

Introduction: The Rainforest and Its Inhabitants

Rainforests are one of the most diverse and complex ecosystems in the world, home to an estimated two-thirds of all terrestrial species. They are located near the equator, where the climate is warm and humid, providing ideal conditions for plant growth. The lush vegetation, in turn, supports a rich array of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Unfortunately, many of these rainforest animals are facing an uncertain future due to a range of human-induced threats.

Deforestation: A Major Threat to Rainforest Animals

Deforestation is the single most significant threat to rainforest animals, as it destroys their habitat and reduces the availability of food and shelter. Every year, millions of acres of rainforest are cleared for various purposes, including agriculture, logging, mining, and urbanization. This has led to the fragmentation of once contiguous forests, creating small, isolated patches of habitat that are often insufficient to support viable populations of many species. Deforestation also exacerbates climate change by releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and reducing the capacity of forests to absorb it. This, in turn, affects the entire planet, including rainforest animals that rely on a stable climate.