In a surprising incident, 43 rhesus macaques have escaped from a research facility in South Carolina, raising alarm among local residents. The primates fled from Alpha Genesis, a company specializing in breeding monkeys for medical testing, after an employee inadvertently left their enclosure open. As they roam free in the Lowcountry region, authorities are actively working to recapture them.
Local police have issued warnings to residents, advising them to ensure their doors and windows are securely closed and to report any sightings of the monkeys immediately. These young female monkeys each weigh approximately 7 lbs (3.2 kg) and are described as “skittish” by the Yemassee Police Department.
Authorities have confirmed that traps are being set in strategic locations and that thermal imaging cameras are being utilized to locate the animals. They emphasized that the public should not attempt to approach the escaped monkeys under any circumstances.
According to Greg Westergaard, CEO of Alpha Genesis, efforts are being made to lure the monkeys back with food. He expressed his frustration over the escape but remains hopeful for a positive resolution. “They’re hanging out in the woods,” he noted, explaining how one monkey’s lead can prompt others to follow.
This incident is not an isolated case; it marks at least the third occurrence of monkey escapes from Alpha Genesis. In 2016, 19 monkeys escaped but were swiftly returned within six hours. Two years prior, 26 primates had also gone missing.
The current search is complicated by inclement weather, as rain has made it difficult for search teams to locate the animals effectively. Westergaard mentioned that while there is some natural food available in the woods, it does not match their preferred diet of apples, which could aid in their recapture efforts.
Local community leaders are also engaged in this situation. Congresswoman Nancy Mace has stated her office is gathering information to keep constituents informed about this unusual event.
Despite concerns regarding these primates' potential behavior—macaques can be aggressive—Yemassee Police Chief Gregory Alexander reassured the public that “there is almost no danger.”
As authorities continue their search for these escaped monkeys, this incident highlights broader issues related to animal captivity and research practices. The ability of these animals to adapt to their environment raises questions about their welfare and safety moving forward.
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