Spanning nine nations, housing 1 in 10 of all known species and covering 40% of South America, The Amazon rainforest is not only the largest tropical rainforest on the planet, but represents more than half of tropical rainforests remaining on earth, and it is rapidly disappearing.

An estimated 390 billion trees comprised of 16,000 species make up the 2.1 million square miles of the Amazon rainforest, producing an estimated 20% of the world's oxygen.

An estimated 390 billion trees comprised of 16,000 species make up the 2.1 million square miles of the Amazon rainforest, producing an estimated 20% of the world's oxygen.

Giants of the jungle. Ecosystems stack up as stories in a building in the Amazon; The forest floor, understory, canopy and finally emergent layer.

Giants of the jungle. Ecosystems stack up as stories in a building in the Amazon; The forest floor, understory, canopy and finally emergent layer.

Madre selva, or in english; jungle mother. Referring to the giving nature of the jungle providing every aspect necessary for survival. Madre selva is also a name reserved for some of the largest individual trees, usually in the Kapok species. Some gr

Madre selva, or in english; jungle mother. Referring to the giving nature of the jungle providing every aspect necessary for survival. Madre selva is also a name reserved for some of the largest individual trees, usually in the Kapok species. Some grow to staggering heights of more than 250 feet and survive for centuries.

Just above the mouth of the Momón River, before joining the Rio Nanay, the floating Amazon Oasis Lodge is a popular destination for tourism near the city of Iquitos, Peru. Both rivers tributaries to the mighty Amazon River.

Just above the mouth of the Momón River, before joining the Rio Nanay, the floating Amazon Oasis Lodge is a popular destination for tourism near the city of Iquitos, Peru. Both rivers tributaries to the mighty Amazon River.

With the boom of rubber production in the early 1900's, the Peruvian port city of Iquitos is still considered a gateway to the jungle lodges and tribal villages of the northern Amazon and the region has exploded in population in recent years. Since 1

With the boom of rubber production in the early 1900's, the Peruvian port city of Iquitos is still considered a gateway to the jungle lodges and tribal villages of the northern Amazon and the region has exploded in population in recent years. Since 1990, the population has nearly doubled to almost 500,000 people. Ever encroaching on the world's largest rain forest.

Flooded waterways rise and fall by meters yearly near the Peruvian port city of Iquitos, northern Peru. 'Lanchas,' or long wooden motorboats transport thousands of people and tons of various small cargo daily.

Flooded waterways rise and fall by meters yearly near the Peruvian port city of Iquitos, northern Peru. 'Lanchas,' or long wooden motorboats transport thousands of people and tons of various small cargo daily.

Boats are the main mode of transportation throughout the endless waterways, tributaries, floodplains, rivers and wetlands. On land, small motorcycle powered carts called tuk-tuks are the transport of choice. Here, a lancha returns down the Rio Momón

Boats are the main mode of transportation throughout the endless waterways, tributaries, floodplains, rivers and wetlands. On land, small motorcycle powered carts called tuk-tuks are the transport of choice. Here, a lancha returns down the Rio Momón to the Peruvian port city of Iquitos.

Makeshift tarp windshields suffice during the heavy jungle rains in the Amazonian city of Iquitos in northern Peru. Thousands of tuk-tuks, the motorized carts used for all kinds of human, resource and commerce transport, roam the European-styled city

Makeshift tarp windshields suffice during the heavy jungle rains in the Amazonian city of Iquitos in northern Peru. Thousands of tuk-tuks, the motorized carts used for all kinds of human, resource and commerce transport, roam the European-styled city daily.

Leticia, Colombia. A bustling Amazonian city of nearly 50,000 in far southeastern Colombia, right on the banks of the Amazon river, which serves as the border between la Tres Frontera, or the "triple frontier." The three countries of Brazil, Peru and

Leticia, Colombia. A bustling Amazonian city of nearly 50,000 in far southeastern Colombia, right on the banks of the Amazon river, which serves as the border between la Tres Frontera, or the "triple frontier." The three countries of Brazil, Peru and Colombia merely divided by the river and in the case of Brazil and Colombia, a small street. Porters and transports at the waterfront wait to fill small powered wooden 'lanchas' with tourists, animals, goods and various cargo to ferry up and down the Amazon River.

A young boy bails water from a wooden boat or 'lancha.' Hundreds of people live dispersed along the banks of the Amazon, including many indigenous tribes, relocating from remote villages to make a "better" living. The Inga, Witoto, Ticuna, Tucano and

A young boy bails water from a wooden boat or 'lancha.' Hundreds of people live dispersed along the banks of the Amazon, including many indigenous tribes, relocating from remote villages to make a "better" living. The Inga, Witoto, Ticuna, Tucano and Nukak are several of what were once dozens of indigenous tribes there.

A popular tourist destination and jump-off point into the Colombian Amazon, Leticia is a small but storied city. Beginning as the grave site of a Portuguese explorer, becoming a disputed area between Peru and Colombia and later named (by legend) afte

A popular tourist destination and jump-off point into the Colombian Amazon, Leticia is a small but storied city. Beginning as the grave site of a Portuguese explorer, becoming a disputed area between Peru and Colombia and later named (by legend) after an Amerindian woman beloved by a Colombian soldier. The name was solidified in 1867 by a Peruvian engineer who named the port after his wife; Leticia.

Tourism and agriculture have remained Leticia, Colombia's main industries for decades. Wildlife enthusiasts, scientific expeditions and international tourists fill dozens of 'lanchas,' -speedboats to be ferried up and down the Amazon River.

Tourism and agriculture have remained Leticia, Colombia's main industries for decades. Wildlife enthusiasts, scientific expeditions and international tourists fill dozens of 'lanchas,' -speedboats to be ferried up and down the Amazon River.

For children growing up on the shores of the Amazon River, water is a way of life. Despite the many dangers of the second largest river in the world, many kids as soon as they can walk learn to fish, hunt, gather materials and food from the forest an

For children growing up on the shores of the Amazon River, water is a way of life. Despite the many dangers of the second largest river in the world, many kids as soon as they can walk learn to fish, hunt, gather materials and food from the forest and also attend school.

The small Peruvian cities of Santa Rosa de Yavarí and Islandia, the Brazilian cities of Benjamin Constant and Tabatinga and Leticia, Colombia, are all connected by the superhighway of water created by the Amazon River at the Tres Frontera- the triple

The small Peruvian cities of Santa Rosa de Yavarí and Islandia, the Brazilian cities of Benjamin Constant and Tabatinga and Leticia, Colombia, are all connected by the superhighway of water created by the Amazon River at the Tres Frontera- the triple frontier. Porters and ferries shuttle people, animals and goods up and down the often dangerous stretches of water year-round.

Learning to navigate the intricate and sometimes dangerous waterways that weave through the Amazonian jungles and sometimes small cities like Leticia, southeastern Colombia, begins for children as young as five. Without transcontinental roads, waterw

Learning to navigate the intricate and sometimes dangerous waterways that weave through the Amazonian jungles and sometimes small cities like Leticia, southeastern Colombia, begins for children as young as five. Without transcontinental roads, waterways make up the routes to and from anywhere for most of regular life on the Amazon River.

Tucuxi dolphins are small freshwater dolphins endemic to the Amazon. The Tucuxi name is derived from the indigenous Tupi language. Locally called 'grises', or in English, 'grays,' they navigate the tributaries and main stem of the Amazon River. A typ

Tucuxi dolphins are small freshwater dolphins endemic to the Amazon. The Tucuxi name is derived from the indigenous Tupi language. Locally called 'grises', or in English, 'grays,' they navigate the tributaries and main stem of the Amazon River. A type of pygmy dolphin closely resembling bottle-nose dolphins, these completely unique aquatic mammals as recently as 2019 were categorized among the most threatened animals in the world by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Fishing nets, mercury contamination from illegal gold mining and the loss of habitat due to hydro-power plant construction has left them endangered.

Two unique and genetically separate species of freshwater dolphins are endemic to the Amazon. Los delfines rosados, Botos, or pink river dolphins seen here, are the largest of the Amazon's dolphins. Males can grow up to 400 lbs and eight feet long. T

Two unique and genetically separate species of freshwater dolphins are endemic to the Amazon. Los delfines rosados, Botos, or pink river dolphins seen here, are the largest of the Amazon's dolphins. Males can grow up to 400 lbs and eight feet long. These pink river dolphins are also under threat due to mercury poisoning from mining operations, habitat loss and sometimes direct targeting to be killed and used as bait for fishing nets.

Two pink river dolphins, delfines rosados, or botos surface for air.

Two pink river dolphins, delfines rosados, or botos surface for air.

The dorsal fins of pink river dolphins are flatter, more curved and less prominent than their distant ocean-going cousins. Their pinkish hue doesn't begin to show until the adults are around 15 years old, but remains a mystery as to why they are pink

The dorsal fins of pink river dolphins are flatter, more curved and less prominent than their distant ocean-going cousins. Their pinkish hue doesn't begin to show until the adults are around 15 years old, but remains a mystery as to why they are pink at all. Theories exist from camouflage to scar tissue.

Pink river dolphins, unlike their oceanic relatives have an unfused vertebra, longer beaks and smaller but more prominent heads, allowing them to navigate and weave through rooted and tangled waterways. Their diets are the most varied of all dolphins

Pink river dolphins, unlike their oceanic relatives have an unfused vertebra, longer beaks and smaller but more prominent heads, allowing them to navigate and weave through rooted and tangled waterways. Their diets are the most varied of all dolphins, consuming more than 50 species of fish and even small turtles and crabs.

Delfines rosados are often seen in pairs, but family groups of more than a dozen can sometimes be seen. Legends from indigenous tribes also describe them as 'Tekuchin,' a mythological shapeshifting being that takes the form of a fisherman and seduces

Delfines rosados are often seen in pairs, but family groups of more than a dozen can sometimes be seen. Legends from indigenous tribes also describe them as 'Tekuchin,' a mythological shapeshifting being that takes the form of a fisherman and seduces young women on the river before returning to the water.

With the population of Iquitos, Peru nearly doubling since 1990, poverty already affected an estimated 40 percent of the population. With those estimates being pre-COVID, monetary poverty skyrocketed during the pandemic and has fallen largely on youn

With the population of Iquitos, Peru nearly doubling since 1990, poverty already affected an estimated 40 percent of the population. With those estimates being pre-COVID, monetary poverty skyrocketed during the pandemic and has fallen largely on younger people, many of whom left far remote villages and towns looking for work in larger urban areas. Makeshift floating living areas begin to pop up on city outskirts, with second buildings behind in order to replace those that eventually succumb to the river and sink.

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Peru’s largest region, Loreto, has 8 provinces, 53 districts and more than 1,000,000 people. According to UNICEF, nearly 39% (413,599) are children and adolescents. With monetary poverty affecting an estimated 40% of the population pre-pandemic, chil

Peru’s largest region, Loreto, has 8 provinces, 53 districts and more than 1,000,000 people. According to UNICEF, nearly 39% (413,599) are children and adolescents. With monetary poverty affecting an estimated 40% of the population pre-pandemic, children will be one of the most largely affected groups.

The illegal pet trade is a deeply complicated problem throughout the Amazon. While many indigenous peoples lived often with wild 'mascotas,' or pets, often times these same animals are brought with the family into the cities as they leave remote area

The illegal pet trade is a deeply complicated problem throughout the Amazon. While many indigenous peoples lived often with wild 'mascotas,' or pets, often times these same animals are brought with the family into the cities as they leave remote areas and villages looking for economic opportunity. For primates especially, like this woolly monkey, reintroduction back into the wild is impossible. Although made illegal by the government of Peru, many other species find themselves smuggled, captured at infancy, or kept caged for profit at illegal unsuspecting tourist traps.

Monos ardillas, or squirrel monkeys gather together at La Isla do Los Micos, Colombia. The original group of squirrel monkeys were introduced to the fluvial island in the 1960's by controversial figure Mike Tsalikis. Considered one of the first to re

Monos ardillas, or squirrel monkeys gather together at La Isla do Los Micos, Colombia. The original group of squirrel monkeys were introduced to the fluvial island in the 1960's by controversial figure Mike Tsalikis. Considered one of the first to realize the potential for ecotourism, but at great cost. At one point an estimated 12,000 primates lived on the island he bought that was used to traffic animals for scientific testing, zoos and even personal pets. He would later go to prison for one of the largest cocaine trafficking operations the U.S. has ever seen. When the primate industry was outlawed in the 1990's the monkeys remained. Unable to return to the wild, an estimated few thousand remain as a tourist attraction.

Rio Madre Dios. A large tributary to the Amazon, and access point to Parque Nacional de Manú, Manu National Park, several hours from Cusco, Peru.

Rio Madre Dios. A large tributary to the Amazon, and access point to Parque Nacional de Manú, Manu National Park, several hours from Cusco, Peru.

An Amazon rain. The Amazon is aptly named a rainforest...but several new studies as recent as 2017 suggest the amount of rain could be related to transpiration; water vapor emitted from pores under leaves during photosynthesis. Data from NASA's Aura

An Amazon rain. The Amazon is aptly named a rainforest...but several new studies as recent as 2017 suggest the amount of rain could be related to transpiration; water vapor emitted from pores under leaves during photosynthesis. Data from NASA's Aura satellite has led scientists to believe plants can emit enough moisture to produce low lying clouds. When these clouds produce rain, it may trigger enough circulation to create atmospheric changes, creating wind that brings even more moisture in rain-laden clouds from the ocean.

With water levels rising and falling tens of meters in a single year, the waterways of the Amazon can be treacherous, as seen from the discarded skeletons of boats run aground or hung up, to hopefully be salvaged later.

With water levels rising and falling tens of meters in a single year, the waterways of the Amazon can be treacherous, as seen from the discarded skeletons of boats run aground or hung up, to hopefully be salvaged later.

More than 1,500 species of butterfly call the Amazon home and those are merely the ones scientists have identified. Amazonia is considered one of the highest priorities for butterfly inventory with the idea many more aren't described or even discover

More than 1,500 species of butterfly call the Amazon home and those are merely the ones scientists have identified. Amazonia is considered one of the highest priorities for butterfly inventory with the idea many more aren't described or even discovered. Here, a large green Dido Longwing, orange Juliette butterflies, orange-barred Sulphurs and White Flag butterflies congregate on the bank of the Amazon.

Every evening, tens of thousands of white-winged parakeets, or locally known 'pericos,' flock to Parque Santander, a small park in the center of Leticia, Colombia. The endless flocks cause a deafening din and the birds have formed a sort of symbiotic

Every evening, tens of thousands of white-winged parakeets, or locally known 'pericos,' flock to Parque Santander, a small park in the center of Leticia, Colombia. The endless flocks cause a deafening din and the birds have formed a sort of symbiotic relationship with the small city; it is thought they flock to the trees of the park knowing they are far safer in the city away from predators before returning to the jungle every morning to feed during the day.

Tabatinga, Brazil. The small Brazilian city right on the banks of the Amazon is part of the 'tres frontera; or triple frontier. The Amazon river serves as the border with Peru to its west, and Leticia to its north, separated only by a street.

Tabatinga, Brazil. The small Brazilian city right on the banks of the Amazon is part of the 'tres frontera; or triple frontier. The Amazon river serves as the border with Peru to its west, and Leticia to its north, separated only by a street.

The small city of Islandia nestled on the banks of the Javary River, a tributary to the Amazon. Residents refer to it as the Peruvian Venice, with most buildings constructed on stilts during the high-water flood season.

The small city of Islandia nestled on the banks of the Javary River, a tributary to the Amazon. Residents refer to it as the Peruvian Venice, with most buildings constructed on stilts during the high-water flood season.

Children ride through the stilted streets of Islandia, Peru. A small remote city in the Peruvian Amazon on the banks of the Javary River, a tributary to the Amazon River. Nearly every building rests on high stilts, a tactic for the floodwaters of the

Children ride through the stilted streets of Islandia, Peru. A small remote city in the Peruvian Amazon on the banks of the Javary River, a tributary to the Amazon River. Nearly every building rests on high stilts, a tactic for the floodwaters of the rainy season.

If it floats, its a boat. All manner of floating constructions make use of the Amazon and its tributaries to ferry people, goods, and as our porter explains his concern with using the river at night, the illegal drug trade.

If it floats, its a boat. All manner of floating constructions make use of the Amazon and its tributaries to ferry people, goods, and as our porter explains his concern with using the river at night, the illegal drug trade.

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A spider monkey mother and baby jump ship. Looking for a quick drink and cool-off, Mom and baby use the collected water in the bottom of porter's lanchas during many stops for tourists and workers traveling up and down the intricate waterways. Only

A spider monkey mother and baby jump ship. Looking for a quick drink and cool-off, Mom and baby use the collected water in the bottom of porter's lanchas during many stops for tourists and workers traveling up and down the intricate waterways. Only humanized primates are comfortable with the types of close interactions and once they are familiar, or even dependent on human interaction, they can never return to fully wild.

Capuchin monkeys are widespread throughout the Amazon and their range even extends from Colombia to northern Argentina. Their moniker derived from 15th century Portuguese explorers arriving in the New World saw these small monkeys and noted their res

Capuchin monkeys are widespread throughout the Amazon and their range even extends from Colombia to northern Argentina. Their moniker derived from 15th century Portuguese explorers arriving in the New World saw these small monkeys and noted their resemblance to an order of friars in brown robes with their large hoods down--Friars Minor Capuchin.

Leoncito, the local name for the very cute, very tiny and very curious Pygmy Marmoset. The smallest monkey and one of the smallest primates on the entire globe, they can live their entire gummivore life, in one tree. They feed on sap with highly adap

Leoncito, the local name for the very cute, very tiny and very curious Pygmy Marmoset. The smallest monkey and one of the smallest primates on the entire globe, they can live their entire gummivore life, in one tree. They feed on sap with highly adapted mouths and teeth for cutting into bark. Often sought for the illegal pet trade, Pygmy Marmosets habitat is threatened throughout the Amazon and upon capture, can sometimes die in a matter of hours due to their sensitivity to temperature.

Of the 15 recognized species of primates in the Amazon, the Bald Uakari Monkey is among the most threatened. It has declined 30% over the last 30 years with hunting and the loss of its specific Amazon flooded forest zone habitat being the main factor

Of the 15 recognized species of primates in the Amazon, the Bald Uakari Monkey is among the most threatened. It has declined 30% over the last 30 years with hunting and the loss of its specific Amazon flooded forest zone habitat being the main factors.

A Monk Saki Monkey lives its entire life in the upper arboreal forest and rarely if ever comes to the ground. With several subspecies discovered as recently as 2014, little is known about many Saki monkeys and they continue to be the subject of scie

A Monk Saki Monkey lives its entire life in the upper arboreal forest and rarely if ever comes to the ground. With several subspecies discovered as recently as 2014, little is known about many Saki monkeys and they continue to be the subject of scientific debate.

An ever present feeling while wandering through the jungle of the Amazon Rainforest is that you are being watched. Most of the time, you are probably correct. Even stranger still, is finding a face while scanning the canopy. This Lucifer Titi, also c

An ever present feeling while wandering through the jungle of the Amazon Rainforest is that you are being watched. Most of the time, you are probably correct. Even stranger still, is finding a face while scanning the canopy. This Lucifer Titi, also called a Collared Titi was as curious about us as we were about him, or her.

Boci Leche, or in English; milk mouth. Actually a Brown-Mantled Tamarin, these highly social small primates are about the size of a cat and live in arboreal forests throughout the Colombian Amazon. Their white mustached mouths give them their name. L

Boci Leche, or in English; milk mouth. Actually a Brown-Mantled Tamarin, these highly social small primates are about the size of a cat and live in arboreal forests throughout the Colombian Amazon. Their white mustached mouths give them their name. Leaping up to several meters in single bounds, they seem to almost glide through the canopy effortlessly.

Brown Woolly Monkeys live throughout the upper Amazon Basin in highly social groups that can be as large as 70 individuals. Through their foraging, feeding and droppings they are a key part of the ecosystem, dispersing tens of thousands of seeds ever

Brown Woolly Monkeys live throughout the upper Amazon Basin in highly social groups that can be as large as 70 individuals. Through their foraging, feeding and droppings they are a key part of the ecosystem, dispersing tens of thousands of seeds every year. A curious fact about Woolly Monkeys; females are dominant and possessive of males and may harass others that try to interact them.

A Brown Woolly Monkey, Colombian Amazon.

A Brown Woolly Monkey, Colombian Amazon.

The insane acrobatics of dozens of primates throughout the Amazon Rainforest are incredible to see firsthand. A total understanding of height, distance, tree selection and physical awareness are on display as, in this case, Woolly Monkeys sprawl lik

The insane acrobatics of dozens of primates throughout the Amazon Rainforest are incredible to see firsthand. A total understanding of height, distance, tree selection and physical awareness are on display as, in this case, Woolly Monkeys sprawl like sky-divers before catching the perfect branch or patch of foliage to recover and continue. They can cover as much as 2km per day fearlessly leaping through the canopy.

Kapok trees are some of the largest of the Amazon Rainforest. Sometimes reaching a towering 250 feet, they provide the building blocks for habitat from canopy to forest floor for thousands of species.

Kapok trees are some of the largest of the Amazon Rainforest. Sometimes reaching a towering 250 feet, they provide the building blocks for habitat from canopy to forest floor for thousands of species.

Camouflage is key in the Amazon and with the abundance of plant life, it pays to play the part. Proscopiidae, or Jumping Stick Grasshoppers are aptly named. These neotropical grasshoppers can be found from southern Mexico and throughout South America

Camouflage is key in the Amazon and with the abundance of plant life, it pays to play the part. Proscopiidae, or Jumping Stick Grasshoppers are aptly named. These neotropical grasshoppers can be found from southern Mexico and throughout South America.

Few arachnids can manipulate surface tension as well as the Fishing Spider. Even able to coat its body in air, walking on water comes in handy for one of the wettest places on earth.

Few arachnids can manipulate surface tension as well as the Fishing Spider. Even able to coat its body in air, walking on water comes in handy for one of the wettest places on earth.

Tarantulas can live up to 30 years, and the species of the Amazon are the largest in the world, with some measuring 13 inches across.

Tarantulas can live up to 30 years, and the species of the Amazon are the largest in the world, with some measuring 13 inches across.

A leaf katydid doing its best leaf impression. With almost 400 billion trees in the Amazon, looking like just another leaf can be the difference between life and death.

A leaf katydid doing its best leaf impression. With almost 400 billion trees in the Amazon, looking like just another leaf can be the difference between life and death.

Being hard to see is a strategy that is hard to beat in the Amazon Rainforest. Phasmatodea, stick insects, or walking sticks, have evolved to make use of the most abundant camouflage in the forest; twigs and leaves.

Being hard to see is a strategy that is hard to beat in the Amazon Rainforest. Phasmatodea, stick insects, or walking sticks, have evolved to make use of the most abundant camouflage in the forest; twigs and leaves.

More than 420 species of frog, toads and tree frogs are found throughout the Amazon. Thats about 1/10th of the 4,000 species on the planet. This Scinax, or tree frog soaks up a cool rain during the night.

More than 420 species of frog, toads and tree frogs are found throughout the Amazon. Thats about 1/10th of the 4,000 species on the planet. This Scinax, or tree frog soaks up a cool rain during the night.

While some species camouflage, others skip straight to warnings, or Aposemitism; the advertising by an animal to potential predators that it is not worth attacking or eating. The infamous bright colors of the poison dart frog stand out against deep g

While some species camouflage, others skip straight to warnings, or Aposemitism; the advertising by an animal to potential predators that it is not worth attacking or eating. The infamous bright colors of the poison dart frog stand out against deep greens of the jungle. While not producing the toxins themselves, they actually sequester the poison from their food; usually ants.

Where there is water, there are mosquitoes. Where there are mosquitoes, there are...baby mosquitoes. These clouds of tiny insects while mostly harmless at this stage in their development, do mature to become a serious nuisance throughout the Amazon a

Where there is water, there are mosquitoes. Where there are mosquitoes, there are...baby mosquitoes. These clouds of tiny insects while mostly harmless at this stage in their development, do mature to become a serious nuisance throughout the Amazon and the world with blood borne illnesses like Malaria, Dengue Fever, Yellow Fever and Zika Virus.

The endangered Giant River Otter. Only living in the tributaries and main stems of the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems. This family had found a large catfish, or locally named 'Mota' and took turns sharing their meal.

The endangered Giant River Otter. Only living in the tributaries and main stems of the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems. This family had found a large catfish, or locally named 'Mota' and took turns sharing their meal.

Giant river otters can reach almost 2 meters and are actually the longest member of the weasel family, Mustelidae. Amazon giant river otters were listed as endangered in 1999 and in the wild their population is estimated at less than 5,000.

Giant river otters can reach almost 2 meters and are actually the longest member of the weasel family, Mustelidae. Amazon giant river otters were listed as endangered in 1999 and in the wild their population is estimated at less than 5,000.

Pirarucu. Portrayed as a river monster, sought for its meat as a local delicacy and threatened by widespread over fishing throughout the waterways of the Amazon, the gigantic Arapaima Gigas is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. A true l

Pirarucu. Portrayed as a river monster, sought for its meat as a local delicacy and threatened by widespread over fishing throughout the waterways of the Amazon, the gigantic Arapaima Gigas is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. A true living fossil, it actually breathes air and must surface for gulps regularly.

Grises, or Tucuxi dolphins are the distant pygmy cousins of oceanic dolphins, and increasingly threatened. Resembling bottle-nose dolphins, they are smaller and with more pinkish hued underbellies.

Grises, or Tucuxi dolphins are the distant pygmy cousins of oceanic dolphins, and increasingly threatened. Resembling bottle-nose dolphins, they are smaller and with more pinkish hued underbellies.

For families living on the banks of the Amazon life centers around the water. Providing food, water, transport and port connections to the outside world requires a navigational familiarity that begins early. Navigating the dangers of one of the large

For families living on the banks of the Amazon life centers around the water. Providing food, water, transport and port connections to the outside world requires a navigational familiarity that begins early. Navigating the dangers of one of the largest rivers in the world also begins early, but there's always time for a swim break.

For families living on the banks of the Amazon life centers around the water. Providing food, water, transport and port connections to the outside world requires a navigational familiarity that begins early. Navigating the dangers of one of the large

For families living on the banks of the Amazon life centers around the water. Providing food, water, transport and port connections to the outside world requires a navigational familiarity that begins early. Navigating the dangers of one of the largest rivers in the world also begins early, but there's always time for a swim break.

"If they don't see you, pretend that they do, and if they do see you, pretend that they don't," seems to be the logic behind many species of the Amazon. Leaf-mimic toads like this one here, have mastered the art of not only appearing as a leaf, but s

"If they don't see you, pretend that they do, and if they do see you, pretend that they don't," seems to be the logic behind many species of the Amazon. Leaf-mimic toads like this one here, have mastered the art of not only appearing as a leaf, but staying as stock-still as one too.

The tiny spot-legged poison frog is also among poisonous species of frogs in the Amazon.

The tiny spot-legged poison frog is also among poisonous species of frogs in the Amazon.

Of the 1,500 species of butterflies scientists have identified within the Amazon, Tiger Long-wings are some of the most striking.

Of the 1,500 species of butterflies scientists have identified within the Amazon, Tiger Long-wings are some of the most striking.

La Ceiba. Some of the largest trees in the world, and the largest of the Amazon are of the Kapok species. With massive intricate root systems they create habitat for thousands of species from bats to leaf-cutter ants. The tall, wall like root struct

La Ceiba. Some of the largest trees in the world, and the largest of the Amazon are of the Kapok species. With massive intricate root systems they create habitat for thousands of species from bats to leaf-cutter ants. The tall, wall like root structures have even historically been used by indigenous people as the base walls for shelters.

Oso Perezoso, translated as 'lazy bear' and commonly known as Sloths. This brown-throated sloth is one of a few species of three-toed sloths and found throughout the Amazon tropical rainforest and they can sleep anywhere from 15-18 hours a day. Defo

Oso Perezoso, translated as 'lazy bear' and commonly known as Sloths. This brown-throated sloth is one of a few species of three-toed sloths and found throughout the Amazon tropical rainforest and they can sleep anywhere from 15-18 hours a day. Deforestation threatens their populations and some species are endangered.

A brown-throated sloth sits snugly against a tree. Sloths move so slowly, algae can form on their fur.

A brown-throated sloth sits snugly against a tree. Sloths move so slowly, algae can form on their fur.

Sunset on the Amazon River.

Sunset on the Amazon River.

Playtime looks different for children of the Amazon Rainforest. Chasing down a runaway ball on a powerful river takes a familiarity with water that begins as soon as kids can walk. With canoes, as soon as they can hold their own paddle. This young g

Playtime looks different for children of the Amazon Rainforest. Chasing down a runaway ball on a powerful river takes a familiarity with water that begins as soon as kids can walk. With canoes, as soon as they can hold their own paddle. This young girl chased down her ball floating down the river and returned, paddling upstream on the Rio Momón, a tributary to the Amazon River.

Fredy Sinarahua, our guide and boat driver watches for dolphins during sunset on the Amazon River. Working for a local village that has led sustainable eco-tourism efforts in the region near Leticia, Colombia, he hopes to construct an observation ce

Fredy Sinarahua, our guide and boat driver watches for dolphins during sunset on the Amazon River. Working for a local village that has led sustainable eco-tourism efforts in the region near Leticia, Colombia, he hopes to construct an observation center in order to study primates of the area. Studies are often required by the government before protected areas can be established and maintained.

Tucuxi dolphins at sunset. Their playful breaching, jumping and spy-hopping sets an incredible scene as a warm, quiet calm sets over the jungle before the night comes alive with hundreds of nocturnal species.

Tucuxi dolphins at sunset. Their playful breaching, jumping and spy-hopping sets an incredible scene as a warm, quiet calm sets over the jungle before the night comes alive with hundreds of nocturnal species.

The massive thunderheads of monsoon-like rain clouds lit up pink and purple over the dense jungle of the Amazon.

The massive thunderheads of monsoon-like rain clouds lit up pink and purple over the dense jungle of the Amazon.

The first stars of the evening begin to appear over the tiny eco-tourism establishment and floating cabañas on a tributary of the Amazon; the Rio Momón.

The first stars of the evening begin to appear over the tiny eco-tourism establishment and floating cabañas on a tributary of the Amazon; the Rio Momón.

La Noche de las Velitas, Leticia, Colombia. December 7, the night of the little candles marks the unofficial beginning of the Christmas season. People adorn homes, sidewalks, doorways, windows and storefronts with candles. Celebrating the eve of the

La Noche de las Velitas, Leticia, Colombia. December 7, the night of the little candles marks the unofficial beginning of the Christmas season. People adorn homes, sidewalks, doorways, windows and storefronts with candles. Celebrating the eve of the Immaculate Conception, in honor of the Virgin Mary.

Squirrel monkeys leap to one of their regular sleeping trees in Parque Nacional del Manú, Manu National Park. Highly social, very vocal and very tiny, squirrel monkeys in groups of 30-40 scour the canopy all day for food before returning to safe have

Squirrel monkeys leap to one of their regular sleeping trees in Parque Nacional del Manú, Manu National Park. Highly social, very vocal and very tiny, squirrel monkeys in groups of 30-40 scour the canopy all day for food before returning to safe havens to sleep at night.

A mother squirrel monkey carries her baby on her back, returning to a massive tree to rest for the night.

A mother squirrel monkey carries her baby on her back, returning to a massive tree to rest for the night.

Phyllomedusa Camba, or a species of leaf frog rests near the Rio Madre Dios in Parque Nacional del Manú, Peru.

Phyllomedusa Camba, or a species of leaf frog rests near the Rio Madre Dios in Parque Nacional del Manú, Peru.

A White-Lined Leaf frog, Parque Nacional del Manú, Peru.

A White-Lined Leaf frog, Parque Nacional del Manú, Peru.

With the waterways of the Amazon being the only modes of long range transportation, boats run up and down river 24/7. The dangers increase during the night, with unseen logs, debris, and even other boats.

With the waterways of the Amazon being the only modes of long range transportation, boats run up and down river 24/7. The dangers increase during the night, with unseen logs, debris, and even other boats.

Without roads connecting much or any of the interior Amazon basin, only certain types of vehicles can traverse the dense jungles and swamp forests.

Without roads connecting much or any of the interior Amazon basin, only certain types of vehicles can traverse the dense jungles and swamp forests.

Insect eating bat, Parque Nacional del Manú. Bats are the most abundant mammals of the rainforest and tropical areas have the greatest variety. Dozens of species of plants and trees rely on them as direct pollinators, insect controllers and seed disp

Insect eating bat, Parque Nacional del Manú. Bats are the most abundant mammals of the rainforest and tropical areas have the greatest variety. Dozens of species of plants and trees rely on them as direct pollinators, insect controllers and seed dispensers, making bats one of the most important species of the rainforest.

A wall of Eueides Aliphera, or Juliette butterflies wait for their wings to dry before taking off. Parque Nacional del Manú, Peru.

A wall of Eueides Aliphera, or Juliette butterflies wait for their wings to dry before taking off. Parque Nacional del Manú, Peru.

A blue and yellow macaw rests during a light rain. Blue and yellow macaws are often sought for the illegal exotic pet trade. Taken from nests as chicks, they can be smuggled throughout the world, known for their exotic colors and plumage.

A blue and yellow macaw rests during a light rain. Blue and yellow macaws are often sought for the illegal exotic pet trade. Taken from nests as chicks, they can be smuggled throughout the world, known for their exotic colors and plumage.

The Blue Morpho is not only one of the largest butterflies in the world but one of the most beautiful. Flashing through the forest refracting sunlight on millions of tiny scales that give them their iridescent and deep blue color, their wingspan can

The Blue Morpho is not only one of the largest butterflies in the world but one of the most beautiful. Flashing through the forest refracting sunlight on millions of tiny scales that give them their iridescent and deep blue color, their wingspan can measure 6 inches and they only survive 2-3 weeks before they must find a mate and reproduce.

Sunrise over the jungle in Parque Nacional del Manu, Peru.

Sunrise over the jungle in Parque Nacional del Manu, Peru.