Mark Carwardine travels the planet to document wild and rare species. This World Rainforest Day, he makes a BBC Radio 4 Appeal on behalf of Rainforest Trust, broadcasting on Radio 4 this Sunday, 22 June at 07:54 and 21:25, with a repeat on Thursday, 26 June at 15:27 (UK time).

Mark describes his search for Amazonian Manatees in quiet river channels of the Amazon rainforest. “A cross between a seal and a hippo,” these aquatic mammals are elusive – and endangered.

“These enigmatic creatures are at risk of extinction, threatened by hunting and the devastating effects of drought as well as logging, mining, land-grabbing and deforestation.
Rainforest Trust is working to ensure a better future for them by permanently protecting key areas of rainforest—like Lake Tefé in the heart of the Amazon.”

-Mark Carwardine, Rainforest Trust Patron

Community-led conservation saves rainforests.

Seasonal droughts have become tragically routine in Lake Tefé, and last year’s drought was the worst yet. A dryer, hotter climate drains the lake and its tributaries, and deforestation robs the forest of its ability to recover. Fish populations plummet, local families lose food and jobs. The entire ecosystem suffers, with manatees among the casualties.

A healthy rainforest is vital to the survival of local communities – and our planet. That’s why we partnered with Instituto Internacional de Educação do Brasil to restore community rights to manage and protect traditional lands. New designations will protect more than 1 million acres adjacent to the Tefé National Forest.

You can protect the rainforest for people, planet and wildlife.

When you give to our Brazilian Amazon Fund, you protect endangered species and support local communities. Double your impact for the Brazilian Amazon today. For the next £30,000 in donations, every £1 you give will be matched by £1, doubling your impact.

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