Helping Our Local Howler Monkeys: A Community Commitment in Playa Hermosa

Helping Our Local Howler Monkeys: A Community Commitment in Playa Hermosa

Tank Tops Flip Flops Newsletter edition no. 244

As many of you know, there has been a long-standing community effort in Playa Hermosa to protect and preserve the welfare of our local Howler Monkey population. Whether we realize it or not, those of us who live, work, or invest in this beautiful part of Costa Rica share a responsibility to care for the wildlife that makes this region so special. 

We’ll get straight to the point:
Tres Amigos Realty Group, in partnership with Tank Tops Flip Flops, has donated $5,000 to Salve Monos Playa Hermosa, the nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the growing threats faced by our simian neighbors.

Salve Monos Playa Hermosa has worked tirelessly over the years to raise awareness and implement practical, effective solutions. While the group began in Playa Hermosa, their impact now reaches Playa Panama, Playas del Coco, Ocotal, Sardinal, Artola, and beyond —a testament to their dedication and growing influence.

Why This Matters

There are two primary reasons we’re supporting this initiative:

1. The Problem Is Urgent
   Howler Monkeys are being electrocuted at an alarming rate, largely due to habitat fragmentation and unsafe electrical infrastructure. As development increases, so does the risk to these animals, many of which die trying to cross power lines to reach their feeding grounds.
2. There Is a Solution
   Salve Monos has made measurable progress in reversing this trend. Their grassroots approach includes mapping monkey corridors, installing safe crossover bridges, insulating electrical lines, preserving key trees and habitats, and engaging the community in education and action. The only thing holding them back is funding.

Electrocuted Monkey

Dead Mother and Baby Monkey

Real Progress on the Ground

Despite limited resources, Salve Monos Playa Hermosa has made extraordinary strides through volunteer efforts and community support. Their work includes:

• Identifying vital monkey travel paths (corridors)
• Installing crossover bridges to safely reconnect fragmented habitats
• Working with the power company to protect electrical lines
• Reforesting areas with the specific trees needed for food and shelter
• Educating both residents and developers about sustainable practices

Monkey on Crossover Bridge

Mother and Baby Monkey on Crossover Bridge

This is a community-driven initiative, and continued progress depends on all of us. Here’s how you can help:

Ways to Support the Cause

• Donate: Match or exceed our donation—or contribute any amount. Every bit helps.
  Send funds via PayPal or Zelle to: michael@tanktopsflipflops.com. Please include “MONKEYS” in the payment description.
• Sign the Petition: Add your voice in support of protection and funding for Howler Monkey habitat.
  Petition Link ->  See Below
• Volunteer or Sponsor a Bridge: Get involved directly or fund the installation of a monkey bridge in your neighborhood.

For more information or to discuss a specific project, contact:

Salve Monos Playa Hermosa: 

Karol Allard – kkallard@gmail.com | +506-8375-5842 | www.facebook.com/SalveMonosHermosa

Salve Monos Playa Hermosa Mission Statement

1. Engage the Playa Hermosa community in conserving existing Howler Monkey troops and expanding their habitat through reforestation and education.
2. Identify historical and current monkey corridors.
3. Preserve existing habitats and restore deforested areas with key tree species needed for sustenance.
4. Build crossover bridges in key areas to prevent electrocution and road deaths.
5. Identify and protect specific food resources required by the Howler Monkey population.
6. Promote awareness among residents and visitors about the importance of preserving monkey life.
7. Remind everyone that the monkeys were here first—and by ensuring they have food and shelter, we welcome their continued presence in our community.

Learn More & Get Involved

Salve Monos is part of a broader network working across Costa Rica to protect Howler Monkeys and their habitats. If you’d like to explore more about the issue and the solutions in place, here are additional resources:

• Salve Monos Playa Hermosa Facebook Page
• Costa Rica Salve Monos Website

SIGN THE PETITION ->  Stop Monkey Electrocutions