The number of heat-related howler monkeys deaths in Mexico has risen to 157, the government said, with a tragically small number of the 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 clouds from forming and caused extensive sunshine and hot temperatures all across Mexico. Earlier in May, Mexico reported record-high temperatures in 10 cities, including the capital.
Last week, environmentalists had reported that 138 of the midsize primates, known for their roaring vocal calls, had been found dead in the Gulf coast state of Tabasco since May 16. On Sunday, the Environment Department reported that number had risen to 157, and that research was continuing into the causes of the deaths.
Wildlife biologist Gilberto Pozo attributed the deaths to a heat stroke, noting a
