Forests are home to many diverse animals. However, forests also face threats from various factors, such as encroachment, illegal logging, fires, hunting and climate change. As a result, animals in the forest experience various negative impacts, such as habitat loss, population decline, extinction and disease.
One example of an animal threatened by forest conditions is the orangutan. Orangutans are primates that live in the tropical rainforests of Kalimantan and Sumatra. Orangutans have high intelligence and can use simple tools to help them survive. However, orangutans are also very vulnerable to human disturbance.
According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), around 80% of orangutan habitat has been lost in the last 75 years due to deforestation and land conversion for oil palm plantations. As a result, the orangutan population has declined drastically and it is estimated that only around 100,000 remain in the wild.
Apart from orangutans, other animals that live in the forest also face a similar fate. For example, Sumatran tigers, Sumatran elephants, Sumatran rhinos, sun bears and clouded leopards. All of these animals are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list as endangered or critical species. Apart from losing their habitat, these animals are also often victims of illegal hunting for their body parts which have high economic value, such as skin, ivory, horns and hooves.
Animals in the forest not only act as natural inhabitants, but also as guardians of the balance of the ecosystem. These animals help maintain soil fertility by spreading seeds and natural fertilizer. These animals also help control pest populations and natural predators. Apart from that, these animals also have aesthetic and cultural value for humans. Many people are interested in seeing the beauty and uniqueness of animals in the forest through nature tourism activities or scientific research. Many indigenous peoples also consider forest animals as part of their beliefs and traditions.
Unique Things Animals Do in the Forest
Animals that live in forests have many unique things they do to survive, communicate, or reproduce. Here are some examples of unique things that forest animals do:
Poisonous tree frogs have bright colors that contain deadly poison.
This poison is produced from the food they consume, such as ants or termites. This poison can kill predators that try to eat it, or cause pain and convulsions in humans who touch it.
Woodpeckers have strong, pointed beaks that they use to dig holes in trees.
These holes are used as nesting places, storing food, or hiding from predators. Woodpeckers also produce different tapping sounds to communicate with their mates or groups.
Monkeys have long, flexible tails that they use to move in trees.
This tail can help monkeys maintain balance, reach branches or fruit, or even interact with other monkeys. Monkey tails can also express emotions, such as anger, fear, or joy.
Butterflies have wings that are used to attract mates or trick predators.
The color and pattern of butterfly wings can imitate the shape and color of flowers, leaves, or even other animals. Some types of butterflies can also emit unpleasant or poisonous odors from their wings to ward off predators.
Steps to Maintain the Existence of Animals in the Forest
Animals in the forest are an important part of the earth’s ecosystem. They provide various benefits to humans, such as a source of food, medicine, building materials, and natural beauty. However, animals in the forest also face many threats, such as poaching, climate change, forest fires and infrastructure development. Therefore, we need to take steps to maintain the existence of animals in the forest.
Some steps we can take are:
Reduce consumption of meat and animal products originating from the forest.
In this way, we can reduce market demand for wild animals that are hunted or caught illegally.
Support forest conservation and protection efforts.
We can participate in tree planting programs, donations, volunteering, or advocacy to keep forests sustainable and healthy.
Educate yourself and others about the importance of forest animals.
We can read books, watch films, or visit natural tourist attractions that showcase forest biodiversity. We can also spread information and awareness through social media, discussions or campaigns.
Respect the rights and culture of indigenous peoples living around the forest.
They have deep knowledge and connection with the animals of the forest. We can learn from them about how to live in harmony with nature and respect the local values they have.
Report all forms of violations or crimes against animals in the forest.
If we see or become aware of illegal activities such as hunting, trafficking, or abuse of animals in the forest, we can report them to the relevant authorities or environmental organizations.
Forests and the animals in them are a common heritage that we must protect and preserve. In this way, we can enjoy its benefits sustainably and provide a good legacy for future generations.
