Devastation of Hurricane Maria impacting behavior, health on Monkey Island | 60 Minutes
The Impact of Hurricane Maria on Monkey Island: A Study of Rhesus Macaques and the Isolated PopulationsIn 2017, Hurricane Maria was a devastating natural disaster that left an indelible mark on Monkey Island, a remote island in the Pacific Ocean. The island's population was drastically reduced due to displacement caused by the hurricane, with millions fleeing the mainland. This destruction not only altered the island's ecosystems but also affected its inhabitants.
Monkey Island is renowned for its isolation from other parts of the US. The environment became increasingly harsh as storm clouds formed over the ocean, disrupting weather patterns and limiting agricultural productivity. With no access to reliable water sources or clean air, the local climate became harsher year-round.
Rhesus macaques, which live in the rainforests of the surrounding areas, experienced profound changes in their environment. The stress from environmental disruption led to significant impacts on their behavior, mental health, and physical health. Studies have shown that stress can increase anxiety and depression, affecting both individuals inside and outside the macaque. Macaques were found to have higher levels of anxiety and improved sleep quality in stressful conditions.
The impact extended beyond monkeys. The isolated populations of humans on Monkey Island became vulnerable to disease and stress. This isolation led to changes in their behavior—many adopting more cautious attitudes or seeking refuge before they could leave the island. Despite this, there were also positive developments, as people adapted to new conditions and began to form new relationships.
The trauma caused by hurricane Maria has had lasting effects on Monkey Island. While some individuals adapt to the new environment with resilience, others have experienced significant mental and physical challenges. This highlights the importance of understanding environmental stressors and their long-term impacts on populations.
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