9 Most Elusive Mammals in Rainforests

Javan Rhino – One of the rarest large mammals in the world, the Javan rhino resides in the dense tropical forests of Indonesia and is critically endangered, with only a small population remaining.

Sumatran Tiger – This critically endangered tiger subspecies is native to the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, and is highly elusive due to its low population numbers and secretive nature.

Bornean Clouded Leopard – A solitary and arboreal predator, the Bornean clouded leopard is known for its incredible climbing ability and is rarely seen in the wild due to its elusive habits.

Mountain Gorilla – Found in the cloud forests of the Virunga Mountains in Central Africa, mountain gorillas are critically endangered and live in small, isolated populations, making them difficult to spot.

Okapi – Native to the dense rainforests of the Congo, the okapi is a shy and reclusive relative of the giraffe, often referred to as the "forest giraffe."

Sumatran Orangutan – This critically endangered great ape inhabits the rainforests of Sumatra and is elusive due to its solitary nature and declining numbers.

Amazon River Dolphin (Boto) – Found in the freshwater rivers of the Amazon basin, the boto is elusive due to its preference for murky and remote waters deep within the rainforest.

Saola – Often called the "Asian unicorn," the saola is one of the most elusive and rare mammals in the world, discovered only in 1992 in the Annamite Range of Vietnam and Laos.

Giant Otter – Inhabiting the Amazon and other South American river systems, the giant otter is elusive due to its preference for remote and undisturbed waterways in the rainforest.