Tropical rain forests are full of extraordinary and rare animals which are found nowhere else on earth. This makes them very popular with commercial poachers and trappers who seek to make money from the sale of animal parts such as skins and tusks. In addition, many of the species which live in the rain forests are highly prized as pets, particularly small primates such as monkeys and bushbabies.

Much is being done to curtail the actions of the commercial poachers, with special legislation set up to prevent international trade in endangered species. However, the laws put in place to achieve this are difficult to enforce, particularly in those countries that turn a blind eye to the damaging activities of the hunters and traders. Even so, there have been many successes, and it is hoped that with increased international cooperation, the international trade in animal parts and live animals may be limited to a sustainable level.

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