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December 06, 2005
the HAMAZON RAINFOREST
the continuing story of life on earth as told from the lungs of the planet. by toben dilworth.
The Xingu River is a large tributary of the eastern Amazon in the Brazilian state of Pará. Tataquara, home of the Amazon Coop, is situated four hours upstream by a small boat. It is a joint venture between the Amazon Rainforest Foundation and the member tribes: Kayapo, Xicrin, Arara, Assurini, Arawete, Parakanã and Xypaia.
Rush hour on the Xingu River.
The caiman, a relatively small to medium-sized member of the crocodile family, comes ashore.
The Arawete were first contacted in 1977, after wars with neighboring tribes led them to the edge of the Xingu River. Their village population is just under 300.
Over 65% of the Arawete have never left their reservation and have always stayed away from the main river, hidden in the forest.
The Arawete remain very traditional. They plant the cotton they weave to make their clothes. They are very affectionate and friendly people.
Based on current climate change projections, 37% of species throughout the Amazon are threatened with extinction by the year 2050.
Beware the strangling fig tree.
Mahogany is officially recognized as an endangered wood yet continues to be extracted illegally to make exquisite furniture.
The Kayapo, the largest group in the Amazon, are a warrior nation, with more than 5,500 individuals, now living in 30 different settlements. This man is the tribe’s dentist.
The Amazon is truly an unforgettable place.
Posted by rzz at 11:25 PM | Comments (94)