In the midst of a scorching heat wave and severe drought in southeastern Mexico, howler monkeys are falling victim to dehydration and heatstroke. Wildlife biologists, veterinarians, and concerned volunteers are working tirelessly to save these iconic primates, known for their distinctive vocalizations at dawn and dusk.

According to reports, at least 138 howler monkeys have been found dead in the state of Tabasco since May 16. The dire situation has prompted residents and experts to launch rescue efforts, but the conditions have proved to be overwhelming. Gilberto Pozo, a wildlife biologist with Biodiversity Conservation of the Usumacinta, described the distressing scene, stating, "They were falling out of the trees like apples. They were in a state of severe dehydration, and they died within a matter of minutes."

The scorching temperatures, reaching as high as 117 degrees Fahrenheit, have been plaguing Mexico since mid-March. In addition to the lives lost among the howler monkey population, at least 26 people have succumbed to heat-related causes over the past two months. Ten cities, including the capital Mexico City, have recorded unprecedented high temperatures in May.

Compounding the crisis is the scarcity of water due to below-average rainfall throughout the country. Lakes and reservoirs are depleted, affecting various sectors such as household water supplies, agriculture, and fisheries. Mexico City residents are now facing water rationing and the imminent threat of shortages. The soaring temperatures have also led to power outages, and reduced hydroelectric output due to drought.

Habitat loss from forest fires and logging, coupled with the recent heat wave, has intensified the threat to howler monkeys and other creatures. Reptiles and birds have also fallen victim to the severe weather conditions.

Mexico President Andrés Manuel López Obrador addressed the tragic deaths of the howler monkeys during a press conference, acknowledging the impact of the intense heat. He pledged to take action, stating, "Yes, we have to care for the animals, and yes, we are going to do it."

Conservationists have been distributing buckets of water and fruit to the trees to assist the surviving howler monkeys, while also removing the bodies of those that have succumbed to the heat. Veterinarians have played a vital role, providing medical aid to the suffering primates brought to their clinics. Upon arrival, some of the monkeys have had body temperatures as high as 109 degrees Fahrenheit.

Veterinarians like Victor Morato and Sergio Valenzuela have worked tirelessly to save these endangered creatures. Valenzuela explained that the monkeys he treated were as "limp as rags," and he administered intravenous drips with electrolytes and applied ice to their hands and feet. Encouragingly, some of the monkeys under their care have shown signs of recovery.

Mexico is home to various species of howler monkeys, including mantled howlers, Yucatán black howlers, and Mexican howlers. Unfortunately, all three species are at risk, with the International Union for Conservation of Nature listing Yucatán black howlers and Mexican howlers as endangered, and mantled howlers as vulnerable.

As Mexico continues to battle the devastating effects of the heat wave and drought, efforts to protect and preserve these unique primates are of utmost importance. The plight of the howler monkeys serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for conservation measures and sustainable practices to safeguard the country's diverse wildlife.