Life in the Rainforest

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Where would you find high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and the world's most diverse collection of plants and animals? In a rainforest! Join this virtual field trip to lush rainforests around the world, and discover why we should protect this threatened ecosystem.

Before we venture into a rainforest, let's learn important facts about the Rainforest Biome. This section, part of the Virtual Biomes series, explains what rainforests are like and where they're located around the world. Then let's jump over to the Kids Corner created by Rainforest Action Network. You'll find answers to kids' most frequently asked questions, like "What is a rainforest?" and "Why are they so important?" You just might be inspired to learn the seven steps kids can take to save rainforests.

Next, venture into the Science in the Rainforest site. There's a handy section on Rainforest Facts where you'll learn about the four layers of the rainforest, the indigenous people of the rainforest, and more. Then you'll be ready to take a walk in the rainforest and encounter the monkeys and apes, thousands of species of birds, and lush plants — like the enormous tree ferns and orchids.

If you're legs aren't too tired, let's take another Journey Through a Rainforest — this time in Costa Rica. The first-person journal entries and colorful photos make you feel like you're right there on the trail — encountering boa constrictors and hearing the shrill buzz of cicadas!

Finally, let's visit Rara Avis, a rainforest reserve in Costa Rica. Take time to explore the Rainforest Photo Gallery, where you'll get a close-up look at the horned rhinoceros beetle, the owl butterfly with its 13 cm wingspan, and the passion flowers that attract insects and hummingbirds with their vibrant color.

Now that we've encountered the beauty and biodiversity of life in the rainforest, read Rainforest Facts to learn about the frightening reality — that rainforests are being destroyed every day. For example, did you know that at the current rate of destruction, rainforests will be gone in 37 years?

Linking to Save the Earth
This content resource helps teachers locate online resources on Earth Day. This site can be used by teachers to develop lesson plans or by students for independent research. Web links to Earth Day topics, endangered species, and action groups.

Preserving Biodiversity, Protecting Ourselves | Kids' Environmental Report Card 2008
"Nature provides us with lots of different benefits, like foods and medicines," kids say in the Environmental Report Card poll about biodiversity.

Kids' Environmental Report Card Teacher's Guide
Use the Kids' Environmental Report Card activity to its fullest potential in your classroom. Find how-to-use features and inspired suggestions for lessons large and small.

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