Authorities in Yemassee, South Carolina are currently in pursuit of 43 monkeys that have managed to escape from a local research facility. The incident occurred when a keeper accidentally left the monkeys’ pen open at Alpha Genesis, a company specializing in primate breeding for medical research purposes. The young female rhesus macaques, each weighing around 7lbs (3.2kg), have since been roaming freely in the Lowcountry region of the state.
As the search intensifies, residents in the area have been advised to ensure the security of their homes by keeping doors and windows locked. The Yemassee Police Department has emphasized the importance of reporting any sightings of the escaped monkeys to authorities promptly. Police have confirmed that the research company has located the group of monkeys, describing them as “skittish,” and are in the process of attempting to lure them back with food.
CEO of Alpha Genesis, Greg Westergaard, expressed frustration over the escape incident. He remains hopeful for a safe return of the monkeys to the facility, emphasizing that they are still young and have not yet been used for testing, thus posing no threat of carrying diseases. Despite the challenges posed by the weather conditions, efforts to recapture the monkeys are ongoing, with traps set in the area and the use of thermal imaging cameras to aid in the search.
In light of past incidents where monkeys have escaped from the facility, including one in 2016 and another in 2014, local authorities are working diligently to ensure the safe retrieval of the animals. While macaques are known for their aggressive and competitive nature, Police Chief Gregory Alexander reassured the public that there is minimal danger to residents in the area.
Representative Nancy Mace has also been actively involved in addressing the situation, stating her office’s commitment to providing updates to constituents on the progress of the monkey retrieval efforts. As the search continues, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the monkeys to authorities immediately.
The recent escape of the monkeys has drawn parallels to similar incidents globally, such as the case of Honshu, a Japanese macaque that recently escaped from a zoo in Scotland. Despite the challenges posed by the escape, efforts are underway to safely return the animals to the facility and prevent any potential risks to the community.