Originally published on August 24, 2014, at ForceChange.com

Target: Dilma Rousseff, President of Brazil

Goal: Create protected sanctuaries to prevent the rapid depopulation of black spider monkeys

Because black spider monkeys inhabit tropical and subtropical rainforests throughout South America, logging and deforestation are reducing their environment and endangering their species. Although they play a vital role in the survival of their ecosystem, these monkeys are dying out as their rainforests are destroyed. Brazil and other South American countries must lead the charge to save these creatures by designating protected areas to ensure the survival of the black spider monkeys and their rainforests.

The black spider monkey is key to the growth and survival of the tropical rainforests. By contributing to seed dispersal, the monkeys take active roles helping their ecosystem to nourish and thrive. Unsustainable deforestation counteracts seed dispersal by annihilating plant life and endangering the monkeys living within those habitations.

As their environment shrinks due to logging and deforestation, black spider monkeys find themselves hunted by indigenous populations. One of the largest primates in South America, the black spider monkey is being hunted for its meat. With their food options dwindling, indigenous people will continue hunting black spider monkeys.

Brazil and its neighboring countries need to establish protected sanctuaries to prevent the black spider monkey’s extinction. Since Brazil has the largest area of rainforest, their actions will affect many lives and hopefully inspire other South American countries to create protected areas as well. Stop this rampant deforestation before another endangered species becomes extinct.

By signing the petition below you will urge the President of Brazil, Dilma Rousseff, to establish protected areas ensuring the survival of the black spider monkey and its tropical habitat.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear President Dilma Rousseff,

Deforestation and logging practices are rapidly reducing the size of your rainforests and the endangered species living within them. One of these endangered species, the black spider monkey, is facing possible extinction. Your country is blessed with beautiful, lush green rainforests that are being destroyed at an unsustainable rate. By creating protected areas, you will provide both safety for the trees and shelter for the monkeys.

I am writing to you first because your country’s actions will encourage other countries to follow the path of preservation. Unfortunately, your government’s inaction is currently adding to the collective apathy surrounding this issue. The human race is dependent upon the survival of your rainforests. Creating a protected sanctuary for the black spider monkey will be a positive step for the survival of our species as well. Let us work together to change the world for the better.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Frank Wouters via Flickr