In a devastating consequence of Mexico's scorching heatwave, at least 83 howler monkeys have been found dead in the Gulf coast state of Tabasco. These midsize primates, known for their distinctive vocal calls, were discovered lifeless beneath trees, while others were rescued by local residents.

Upon examination, the rescued monkeys were found to be suffering from dehydration and fever, displaying symptoms of heatstroke. Dr. Sergio Valenzuela, a veterinarian who treated the monkeys, described their condition upon arrival as critical. He stated, "They were as limp as rags. It was heatstroke."

The brutal heatwave in Mexico, which has already been linked to the deaths of 26 people since March, has taken a heavy toll on wildlife as well. Veterinarians and rescuers fear that dozens, and potentially hundreds, of howler monkeys may have perished due to the extreme temperatures.

The town of Tecolutilla in Tabasco became a grim scene as dead monkeys began appearing on Friday. A local volunteer fire-and-rescue squad arrived with five monkeys in the back of their truck. Dr. Valenzuela worked tirelessly to revive these creatures, providing them with ice to cool their extremities and administering IV drips. Thankfully, the monkeys are gradually recovering and exhibiting signs of restored vitality.

However, the unfortunate reality is that most howler monkeys have not been as fortunate. Wildlife biologist Gilberto Pozo estimated that around 83 of these animals were found dead or dying on the ground beneath trees. The decline in their population began in early May and reached its peak over the weekend. Pozo observed that the monkeys, already weakened by the scorching conditions, often suffered fatal injuries from falling out of trees that were several yards high.

Pozo attributes the widespread deaths among the howler monkeys to a combination of factors, including high heat, drought, forest fires, and deforestation. These circumstances have deprived the primates of crucial resources such as water, shade, and their primary food source – fruits.

"This is a sentinel species," Pozo remarked, highlighting the significance of howler monkeys as an indicator of the ecosystem's well-being. He drew comparisons to the concept of a "canary in a coal mine," suggesting that these primates can reveal valuable insights about the impact of climate change.

In response to this crisis, Pozo's team has established recovery stations to care for affected animals, currently housing five monkeys along with impacted birds and reptiles. They are also working to assemble a team of specialized veterinarians who can provide the necessary care for these primates.

As of May 9th, record-breaking temperatures have been recorded in nine cities across Mexico, with Ciudad Victoria in the border state of Tamaulipas reaching an astonishing 117°F (47°C). The sweltering conditions only exacerbate the challenges faced by wildlife, prompting concerns about further ecological consequences.

The tragic plight of the howler monkeys serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and protect the delicate balance of our ecosystems.