I n this book you will learn about mammals that have traditionally been used for food by humans. They are difficult to find because of overexploitation, deforestation and the lack of proper management. These factors have caused drastic reductions in many of their populations.

You should recognize that we human beings are responsible for destroying the places where they live, where they find their food, and where they protect themselves from their enemies. All of these factors have raised the risk of their extinction.

First we will learn to identify them. It is difficult to see them except in zoos, since they are very shy and run away and hide from us. They like to live in tropical forests and other wild areas, but above all, they love their freedom.

We will also learn about what they feed on and their natural enemies.

Finally, we will analyze several possibilities recommended by scientists to protect these wonderful species: the Baird's Tapir, the Paca, and the Collared Peccary.