Tropical dry forests are vital ecosystems for some of the world’s most incredible species, and are found in Central and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Unlike tropical rainforests, tropical dry forests experience seasons of drought. To cope – plants and animals must conserve water. Trees send roots deep into the soil to tap into groundwater, storing precious reserves in their trunks and shedding leaves to minimize water loss. Animals have evolved an impressive array of strategies as well: some burrow underground for refuge, others enter dormancy to conserve energy, and many adapt their diets to extract water from food. The rhythm of rain and drought is the defining characteristic of tropical dry forests, and it shapes an extraordinary diversity of life.  

People are drawn to tropical dry forests for their favorable climate conditions, abundant resources, and high agricultural potential. In fact, tropical dry forests support higher human population densities than tropical rainforests and communities have thrived in these ecosystems for thousands of years. However, today, many of these communities are among the poorest in the world, relying on tropical dry forests for food, water, medicine, building materials, and fuel. Unfortunately, these forests are rapidly diminishing. The loss of tropical dry forests is occurring at an alarming rate, with devastating consequences for both wildlife and human well-being. Immediate intervention is necessary to support local communities in addressing this urgent environmental and humanitarian crisis.