Mexico is so Hot, Monkeys are Dropping Dead from Trees

Mexico is grappling with an unprecedented heatwave so severe that it’s causing howler monkeys to fall dead from the trees in the Gulf Coast state of Tabasco. At least 83 of these midsize primates have perished, with the brutal heatwave also claiming the lives of at least 26 people since March.

Residents have been rescuing some of the stricken monkeys, including five that were rushed to a local veterinarian, Dr. Sergio Valenzuela. “They arrived in critical condition, with dehydration and fever. They were as limp as rags,” said Valenzuela. The monkeys are showing signs of recovery thanks to prompt treatment involving ice and IV drips. Once listless, they are now more lively, which is a positive sign for their recovery.

Unfortunately, many howler monkeys have not been as fortunate. Wildlife biologist Gilberto Pozo reported that around 83 monkeys were found dead or dying on the ground beneath the trees. The die-off, which began around May 5, peaked over the weekend. Severely dehydrated, the monkeys often died within minutes of falling from heights, their weakened state exacerbating the fatal impact.

The deaths are attributed to extreme heat, drought, forest fires, and logging. These factors have deprived the monkeys of essential resources like water, shade, and food. Pozo emphasized the significance of this tragedy, stating, “This is a sentinel species. It is telling us something about what is happening with Climate change.”

Efforts to save the remaining monkeys include setting up recovery stations that currently house five monkeys, alongside birds and reptiles also affected by the heat. Pozo’s group is working to organize a team of specialized veterinarians to provide the necessary care.

The extreme heatwave has shattered temperature records in at least nine cities, with Ciudad Victoria in Tamaulipas reaching a scorching 117°F (47°C). Below-average rainfall has exacerbated the situation, drying up lakes and dams, depleting water supplies, and necessitating water deliveries for essential services like hospitals and firefighting teams. The low water levels at hydroelectric dams have also caused power blackouts in some regions.

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