Mexican authorities rescue howler monkey tied to block in 'terrible conditions'

Environmental authorities have rescued a howler monkey in Quintana Roo, Mexico, after receiving a complaint about its poor living conditions. The monkey was found tied to a concrete block at a residence in Othón P. Blanco municipality.

The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) reported that the primate, also known as a saraguato monkey, was confined with a harness to a block, lacking any protection from the sun or rain. It also had no access to water or food.

During an inspection, Profepa personnel confirmed the monkey had no room to move and was in "terrible conditions," as detailed in the complaint filed in April. The agency stated that the conditions violated the law regarding dignified and respectful treatment of wildlife. The howler monkey is listed as endangered under Mexican Official Standard NOM-059-Semarnat-2010, making its welfare particularly important.

According to Profepa, the individual at the residence claimed the monkey was taken from its habitat with injuries and possible mange by a farm worker who intended to nurse it back to health. Details on potential sanctions for the animal's condition were not provided.

The rescued monkey has been secured with the support of the Othón P. Blanco City Council and transferred to the Payo Obispo Zoo Park. It will receive temporary shelter and adequate care there until its permanent placement is determined. Profepa urged the public to report any sightings of primates and reminded citizens about the activation of a protocol to assist non-human primates due to rising temperatures and other natural phenomena that could affect them.

“

The conditions in which the primate was found constitute a violation of dignified and respectful treatment in accordance with Chapter VI of the General Wildlife Law.