During the past ten years, purveyors of endangered animals have been more closely watched by governments throughout the world. These suppliers are often caught with animals on the endangered list, a practice officials hope to stop.

The illicit hunting and capturing of these animals has led to outcries from environmental groups determined to stop this illegal practice, a difficult task.

Despite efforts by governments, the hunters can be very clever and difficult to track. Working in teams, they will divide an area into quadrants and send a guide and hunter to each of the four sections in an attempt to confuse the agents.

Unfortunately, these poachers have no qualms about capturing even the most defenseless of animals. They have been known to cage baby cubs without any misgivings.

Perhaps one of the best defenses for an animal is to be plentiful and of no great value on the market. For instance, the marmoset--a small monkey--is able to chatter and swing from tree to tree without fear.

The zenith of the effort to end the poaching would be the repopulating of many of the endangered animals. This high point will come with the combined efforts of sensitive hunters, guides, and closer government control.

This goal is not always tractable, however, and can be difficult to manage or control without the cooperation of everyone involved.

For example, although it is illegal to use ivory from the tusks of elephants, items made from this tooth-like material continue to be sold.

If there were a change at the marketplace, however, the impact would be felt throughout the world. A strategic variation in the practices of purchasers of the endangered animals, along with the cooperation among hunters, guides, and governments, would be a major solution.

On your next visit to the zoo, remember to spend some time with the animals which may not be prevalent in the next generation if we don't work together to make sure they continue to exist.