rich in natural resources, burma has become a target for neighboring countries that already depleted their own environment or wish to protect what remains. china’s rampant economic growth has only exacerbated he rapid clearing of the native monsoon forest and harvesting of exotic animals.
Endangered asiatic black bears captured and caged to be sold in Mong La, Burma
Live slow lori, a species of primate, are sold openly in outdoor markets in the city of Mong La in Northern Burma on the border with China. Locals say exotic and theatened animals are easier to find with forests being cleared for rubber plantations.
Sign for a specialty herbal and wildlife shop selling endangered forest animals in Mong La, Burma.
Two workers on a rubber plantation in Mong La, Burma graft saplings in the field. The rubber is tapped and shipped to china to manufacture car tires for the booming auto industry.
Exotic wildlife being sold at by a street market vendor in Mong La, Burma.
Rice whisky tonic infused with endangered tiger parts are sold at specialty shop in Mong La, Burma. The Chinese believe drinking the tonic gives them the strength and virility of the animal.
Statue of Buddha overlooking the city of Mong La, Burma that rests on the border with China.
Bear bile is extracted from live (endangered) asiatic black bears in a warehouse in Mong La, Burma. The bile is bottled and sold to the Chinese as a health tonic.
howard hsu / photographer 