Deforestation and Cattle Raising in the Amazon - Stockfoto

A typical scene once roads are made in the Amazon Region: first, trees are felled to sell timber. Then, the barren land is cleared to plant grass, and raise cattle. Often, some larger trees, like Brazil Nuts, are left standing, as they provide shade, and are one of the few species protected by law. These trees also save cattle from being struck by lightning during the vicious tropical rainstorms.