In recent weeks, Mexico howler monkeys have been dying in Mexico’s southeastern tropical forests. The deaths are linked to a severe nationwide drought and extreme heat waves. Temperatures across much of the country have soared, with some areas experiencing record highs.

In the state of Tabasco, local media reported up to 85 monkey deaths. Although local authorities confirmed the trend, they did not provide an official death toll.

The Tabasco Civil Protection Agency attributed the deaths to dehydration. A source from the agency confirmed that dead monkeys were found in three municipalities in the state.

In response to the crisis, volunteers in a forest outside Comalcalco, Tabasco, have been collecting the bodies of the deceased mantled howler monkeys. These volunteers are also placing buckets of water and fruit in the forest to try to prevent further deaths.

The mantled howler monkey is scientifically known as Alouatta palliata. It is classified as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This classification underscores the urgency of addressing the environmental conditions affecting these animals.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador addressed the situation on Monday. “The heat is so strong. I’ve been visiting the states for a long time and I have never felt it as much as now,” he said. President Obrador, who is originally from Tabasco, emphasized the need to care for the animals. He also promised action during his regular news conference.

Later that day, Mexico’s environment ministry released a statement. The ministry is coordinating efforts to address the monkey deaths. They identified several possible causes, including heat stroke, dehydration, malnutrition, or the spraying of crops with toxic agrochemicals.

Mexico is also home to the Yucatan howler monkey, another species at risk. Due to deforestation, this monkey is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.

The extreme heat has not only affected wildlife but also human lives. Mexico’s health ministry reported that 26 people died from heat-related causes between March 17 and May 11.

The ongoing heat wave and drought in Mexico has proved to be fatal. It highlights the urgent need for both immediate and long-term measures to protect vulnerable species and human populations. The deaths of the Mexico howler monkeys are a stark reminder of the broader impacts of climate change.

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