Corcovado National Park Closed Following Unusual High Death Rate of Monkeys and Tucans
Authorities this closed the Parque Nacional de Corcovado (Corcovado National Park) after an unusual number of monkeys were found dead. Biologist Álvaro Ugalde, director of the park, said that they were surprised several weeks ago when the monkeys and the "tucanes" (tucans) were dying.

Ugalde blames the tough winter or rainy season as it is also called, that saw less daylight, more water and humidity, leaving fruit trees bare. At least that is the theory by the experts as they have determined that the park animals died of hunger.

Ugalde added that experts, scientists and veterinarians have been conducting a study and examinations for days to determine the exact cause. Blood samples from the dead monkeys and tucans have been sent to a laboratory in the United States.

Ugalde expressed optimism now that the winter is over and the sun is shining and that the trees have begun to flower, soon to bear fruit so that the animals in the part can feed.

The park, which is visited by thousands of tourists daily, will be closed until at least December 20, so that studies can be carried out. The park may not reopen until experts are certain of what caused the deaths.

One of the reasons for the park closure is reduce the risk to visitors and park staff. The dead monkeys found are buried, however, there are dead animals in the sewers and other places that can pose a health danger.

Ugalde added that all the park employees have had blood tests to determine if one of them had some illness that could have affected the animals. All test results were negative.

The park director said that they have not, since the 1950's, seen in Costa Rica such a high mortality rate like what they are experiencing now. In the 50's, many primates were found dead and no cause was ever found.