Over 40 monkeys escaped from a research facility in South Carolina on Wednesday, leading to safety warnings for local residents to secure their homes. As of Friday morning, none of the rhesus macaques had been recaptured.
The escape occurred at Alpha Genesis, located in Yemassee, Beaufort County, when a caretaker accidentally left a door unsecured. Out of a group of 50 monkeys, 43 made their way out, with CEO Greg Westergaard explaining that the monkeys tend to follow one another. Despite ongoing efforts, including baited traps and thermal imaging cameras, the monkeys have remained elusive.
Westergaard described the primates’ behavior as playful and noted that they are staying close to the facility. He emphasized that the company is trying to avoid scaring the monkeys, as this could lead them to flee further away.
Rhesus macaques, the species that escaped, are recognizable by their brown fur and red faces and are known for their bold and curious nature. Originally imported to the U.S. for biomedical research, these particular monkeys had never been used for testing due to their young age, weighing around 6-7 pounds.
Alpha Genesis has a history involving previously escaped primates, although this incident marks the largest escape to date. Past occurrences have typically resulted in swift recapture, and the recent escapes are being addressed with caution to ensure the safety of both the animals and the surrounding community.
Local authorities, with guidance from the CDC, have stated that the public risk is low as long as individuals do not attempt to approach the animals. This incident reminds us of the importance of safety in research facilities and the need for proper oversight, particularly as Alpha Genesis faced previous violations by the USDA.
As efforts continue to safely manage the situation, there remains hope that the playful monkeys will soon be brought back to their enclosure without harm. This incident also highlights the adaptability and curiosity of these creatures, serving as a gentle reminder of the wild nature that remains within them.