Health
Heat Wave in Mexico Claims Lives of Howler Monkeys, Poses Threat to Wildlife
A severe heat wave in Mexico has led to a devastating situation for the howler monkeys in the state of Tabasco, causing a significant loss of wildlife. According to the information reported by the Associated Press, a distressing number of at least 138 howler monkeys have succumbed to the extreme temperatures in recent weeks. Veterinarians are actively engaged in trying to treat the remaining primates that show symptoms of dehydration and high fever.
The impact of the soaring temperatures is so severe that the monkeys, including the Yucatan black howler monkey species known as Alouatta pigra, are falling from the trees like ripe apples, described wildlife biologist Gilberto Pozo.
Unusual high temperatures have been sweeping across a considerable part of Mexico, with recorded temperatures exceeding 113 degrees Fahrenheit in about one-third of the country. This unprecedented heatwave isn’t just affecting wildlife but is also taking a toll on human lives, with at least 26 fatalities attributed to the scorching temperatures in Mexico since March.
As the temperature continues to soar, the situation presents a critical threat to the wildlife population in the region, including endangered species like the Yucatan black howler monkeys. Jorge Ramos-Luna captured images of these remarkable primates in their natural habitat, highlighting the urgency for conservation efforts and measures to mitigate the impact of climate change on vulnerable wildlife.