MEXICO CITY — The number of heat-related howler monkey deaths in Mexico has risen to 157, the government said, with a tragically small number of primates treated or recovering.
A heat dome, an area of strong high pressure centered over the southern Gulf of Mexico and northern Central America, has blocked cloud formation and caused plenty of sunshine and high temperatures across Mexico.
Last week, environmentalists had reported that 138 of the medium-sized primates, known for their vocal roars, had been found dead in the Gulf Coast state of Tabasco since May 16. Nearly two-thirds of the country is expected to experience high temperatures of 45 degrees. Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) on Monday.
On Sunday night, the Department of Environment reported that the number had risen to 157 and that the investigation into the causes of the deaths was continuing. But a wildlife biologist at the scene said it appeared to be heat stroke.
The department said deaths were occurring in both Tabasco and the neighboring state of Chiapas, and that 13 monkeys were under treatment and seven had been treated and returned to their habitat.
The department said some of the monkeys were being treated for dehydration and three were in serious but stable condition.
Furthermore, with heat, fires and deforestation affecting the trees where howler monkeys live, it was unclear whether even releasing them could guarantee their survival.
Wildlife biologist Gilberto Pozo attributed the deaths to a “synergy” of factors, including high temperatures, droughts, forest fires and logging that deprive the monkeys of water, shade and fruits they eat, while noting that a pathogen, illness or another factor may not yet be ruled out.
Normally quite intimidating, howler monkeys are muscular and some can measure up to 90 centimeters (3 feet), with equally long tails. Some males weigh more than 13.5 kilograms (30 pounds) and can live up to 20 years. They are equipped with large jaws and fearsome teeth and fangs. But most of all they are known for their lion-like roars, which belie their size.
There have also been reports of birds in the southeastern states of Mexico being affected by the heat.
With below-average rainfall across most of the country so far this year, lakes and dams are drying up and water supplies are running out. Authorities have had to truck water in for everything from hospitals to firefighting equipment. Low levels at hydroelectric dams have contributed to power blackouts in some parts of the country.
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