Canopy of Rain Forest Foliage

In south central Mexico, the minimal variation in year-round temperatures means that seasons are based on the variability of rainfall. The rainy season, or winter, occurs from May to August, and the region's dry season is its summer. The tropical deciduous forest is green in the rainy season, but loses its leaves during the dry summer. The elevation provides cool, pleasant temperatures and makes this a desirable place to live. Much of the forest cover has been removed during centuries of human habitation.

Tom McHugh/Photo Researchers, Inc.