A recent wildlife rescue operation in southern Belize has exposed the ongoing threat of illegal activities targeting native species. The incident centers on a critically injured weeks-old howler monkey discovered alone and unable to survive without maternal care.
Medical assessment at the Belize Wildlife and Referral Clinic (BWRC) revealed distressing evidence of trauma. The infant primate presented with a dislocated digit and, more alarmingly, traces of lead detected through radiographic imaging. These findings strongly suggest the juvenile’s mother may have fallen victim to illegal shooting, leaving her offspring orphaned.
Giann Vasquez, Wildlife Hotline Coordinator at BWRC, detailed the sequence of events: “We received an emergency call last Saturday concerning this vulnerable monkey. The initial report claimed the infant had fallen from a tree, prompting concerned citizens to request intervention. Recognizing the immediate danger of illegal pet trade exploitation, our team promptly traveled to the southern region to retrieve the animal.”
Clinical examination subsequently uncovered injuries inconsistent with accidental falling, pointing instead toward human-inflicted harm. Following stabilization procedures, the young primate has been transferred to a specialized facility for extended rehabilitation.
Wildlife authorities are reiterating calls for public vigilance, urging communities to report suspected wildlife crimes through official channels. Officials emphasize that keeping wild animals as domestic pets remains prohibited under Belizean conservation laws. The full investigation will feature on News 5 Live’s evening broadcast, highlighting continuing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.