Howler Monkey Rescued in Chiapas, Showing Signs of Malnutrition and Likely Illegal Trafficking

Environmental authorities in Chiapas, Mexico, have rescued a young female howler monkey exhibiting signs of malnutrition and probable illegal trafficking. The primate was discovered in a residential area of Tuxtla Gutiérrez following a citizen report.

Personnel from the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa), in coordination with the Miguel Álvarez del Toro Regional Zoo, located the juvenile female monkey on July 29th perched in a mango tree. Environmental authorities indicated that the approximately two-year-old primate was underweight, displaying characteristics consistent with captivity and likely being a victim of illegal trade.

The monkey has been transferred to a veterinary clinic for immediate recovery. Initial assessments confirmed the animal weighs four kilograms, necessitating dedicated care to regain a healthy weight. Once recovered, the monkey is slated for transfer to a management unit for rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of potential reintegration into the wild.

This species, scientifically known as *Alouatta palliata*, is listed as endangered under Mexico's Official Mexican Standard NOM-059-Semarnat-2010 and Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Its natural distribution is in northern Chiapas, and it faces significant threats from illegal trafficking and habitat destruction, fragmentation, and degradation, underscoring the importance of such rescue efforts.