The narco-highway creating chaos in a Honduran rainforest

If cutting continues along its current pace, most of the Moskitia forest - and the way of life it sustains - could be lost by 2050, much sooner for many parts

Several hours down a clandestine road that slithers through the rotting remains of what was once protected rainforest in north-eastern Honduras, a rusted bulldozer overgrown with vines and a locked gate appeared ahead.

A vinyl banner hanging from a wooden fence advertised the sale of cattle for breeding. Behind, a palm tree stood above an empty corral like a watchtower. The driver got out to retrieve a key, a pistol tucked inside his belt.