Escaped Monkeys Still On The Loose In South Carolina

Dozens of escaped monkeys are still on the loose in South Carolina.

Last week, 43 Rhesus macaques broke out of their enclosures at the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Facility in Yemassee.  So far, only one has been found and captured. Authorities say the monkeys are still hanging around near the facility, jumping back and forth over the fence.

Traps have been set to recapture them safely. Local residents were warned to keep their windows and doors closed by local authorities after 43 monkeys escaped from the Alpha Genesis research facility in Beaufort County. By early Friday, none had been recaptured and as we start a new week, just ONE monkey has been captured.

The 43 young female rhesus macaques, weighing about 6-7 pounds and not used for testing, escaped due to a caretaker leaving a door unsecured. CEO Greg Westergaard expressed frustration, explaining that once one monkey left, others followed. Staff are attempting to lure the monkeys back with food like apples.

The police assured residents there is no health risk but advised against approaching the animals. Alpha Genesis is a primate research facility registered with the CDC, which stated that as long as people avoid contact, the public risk remains low.

This is not the first time animals have escaped from the facility, which has faced fines and scrutiny from animal activists in the past.