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23 May 2024
Extreme heat in Mexico leading to howler monkey deaths
Howler monkeys are dying in Mexico’s southeastern forests due to intense heat and drought conditions.
Luis Manuel Lopez and Raul Cortes report for Reuters.
In short:
- Up to 85 howler monkeys have died in Tabasco due to severe heat, with temperatures exceeding 45°C.
- Tabasco's Civil Protection agency attributes the deaths to dehydration, confirming incidents in three municipalities.
- Efforts are underway to provide water and fruit to prevent further deaths among the vulnerable species.
Key quote:
"It is because 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."
— Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador
Why this matters:
Rising temperatures threaten wildlife like the vulnerable mantled howler monkeys but also pose significant health risks to humans, as evidenced by 26 heat-related deaths in Mexico this season.
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