Wildlife bridges to reduce electrocutions and other road-related fatalities for mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) in Costa Rica

Project Details

Description

The mantled howler (Alouatta palliata), a large monkey known for its deafening roars, faces significant threat from human expansion. The species is classified as ‘Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List, with deforestation and infrastructure like roads fragmenting their habitat. These tree-dwelling monkeys often resort to crossing roads on electrical wires, risking electrocution and falls.

To address this, USW is working with partners in Costa Rica to introduce monkey bridges — rope pathways designed to reconnect trees and reduce fatalities. So far, we have installed 11 ladder-style rope bridges over busy roads. These bridges are monitored with camera traps and direct observation to evaluate how well they are working and how they could be improved.

While the bridges were designed for howlers, we have also observed capuchins, variegated squirrel, and woolly possums using the structures. This project aims to provide a practical way to protect wildlife who coexist with humans.
StatusActive
Effective start/end date1/01/21 → …