In order to survive in the rain forest, animals need to be able to adapt, and many species have evolved to suit their living conditions. For example, toucans and parrots have large beaks that enable them to crack the hard shells of the fruits and nuts that grow in the rain forest, giving them an advantage over smaller birds. Some animals, such as snakes and turtles, have evolved over time to be able to swim and survive in an environment that has a heavy rainfall.
Many of the inhabitants of the rain forest develop mutually beneficial relationships with other species in order to survive. The birds and mammals that live in the leafy canopy eat fruit from the trees and help to spread their seeds throughout the forest. A rodent called an agouti is directly responsible for the survival of Brazil nut trees as it is the only animal with strong-enough teeth to crack open their over-large seed pods.
Some animals have become masters of camouflage to prevent them from being spotted and eaten by a predator. The three-toed sloth has brown fur, but algae that lives in the fur gives it a green appearance, helping the animal to blend in with the leaves on the trees in which it lives. The sloth also moves very slowly, making it hard to spot in the treetops. Praying mantids have green coloration that enables them to blend in with their surroundings and stalk their prey without being seen. Also, some butterflies have wings that look like leaves.
Loss of habitat is one the biggest threats to the animals that inhabit the rain forest. If animals lose their homes in a sudden and unexpected way, they will most likely die. Large mammals such as gorillas and leopards rely on wide-open spaces to roam, hunt and find mates, making it difficult for them to survive in fragmented habitats. Organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance aim to protect the forests by educating farmers, forest managers and related businesses about the economic and social benefits of preserving this unique ecosystem. In this way, the Alliance hopes to prevent further loss of habitat and ensure the long-term survival of the animals that live there.
