Nature’s loudest voices will be silenced this World Wildlife Day as high voltage electricity continues to threaten Costa Rica’s iconic howler monkeys. International Animal Rescue (IAR) is urgently calling for action to prevent the electrocution of these important animals, along with other arboreal wildlife such as sloths.
The organization warns that each year, hundreds of howler monkeys are tragically electrocuted on uninsulated power lines and transformers in Costa Rica. This not only devastates local wildlife but also has a negative impact on the country’s delicate rainforest ecosystems. Infant monkeys are particularly vulnerable, often found clinging to their electrocuted mothers, orphaned and traumatized.
To address this issue, the Costa Rican government issued Decree No. 44329-MINAE in January 2024, requiring energy providers to take measures to protect wildlife before installing power lines. While this is a step in the right direction, IAR emphasizes that implementation is lagging, leaving countless animals at risk.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue, stresses the urgency of the situation, stating “Howler monkeys are essential to the survival of Costa Rica’s rainforests, yet they continue to die in tragic and preventable incidents. The government’s decree is a promising step, but words must be backed by real action. Insulating power lines and making infrastructure safe for wildlife must be a top priority.”
The toll on rescue teams is also significant. Dr. Francisco Sánchez Murillo, Veterinary Director of IAR Costa Rica, and his team at the IAR Wildlife Rescue Center work tirelessly to save electrocuted monkeys. He describes the emotional toll, saying “Every day, we witness the devastating impact of electrocutions. The suffering is unimaginable. The psychological weight of trying to save these animals, only to lose them, is overwhelming. The world needs to know this crisis is ongoing, and action is needed now.”
But amidst the darkness, there is some positive news. After a period of rehabilitation, a troop of howler monkeys has been successfully released back into the wild in Costa Rica, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the International Animal Rescue (IAR) team. Among them is Estrellita, an orphaned monkey who miraculously survived after suffering severe burns and being rescued from her deceased mother following a tragic electrocution in March 2024.
Estrellita and her troop were moved from the rescue center to a secure pre-release enclosure, allowing them to gradually adapt to their new natural habitat. After a few days, the enclosure was opened and the monkeys began to explore the forest canopy. They quickly started feeding in the trees and moved away from the enclosure, marking a new beginning for the troop as they thrive in the wild where they belong.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of International Animal Rescue, said “The successful release of this troop is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team in Costa Rica. Seeing Estrellita and her troop take their first steps back into the wild is incredibly rewarding, especially knowing the challenges they’ve overcome. This release is not just about these four monkeys, it’s about giving hope to all wildlife affected by human impact. We remain committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rewilding these incredible animals, ensuring they have a future where they can thrive.”
IAR is calling on the Costa Rican government and utility companies to expedite the insulation of power lines and implement immediate mitigation measures to prevent further loss of life. The organization also encourages the public, conservationists, and global supporters to raise awareness and demand action. For more information, visit https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/animals/howler-monkeys.
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