Police are searching for 43 rhesus macaque monkeys that escaped from the Alpha Genesis research facility after a keeper accidentally left their pen open on Wednesday.
Authorities have urged residents in the Lowcountry area to keep doors and windows locked and report any sightings.
The Yemassee Police Department said the young female monkeys, each weighing about 7 pounds, were last seen in nearby woods. Police are using thermal imaging cameras and have set traps in an effort to capture the “skittish” animals, who were attracted by food lures.
Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard expressed frustration over the escape, noting that the group of 50 monkeys initially included seven who stayed behind. He said the remaining 43 were “hanging out in the woods” but may be drawn back by their favorite food, apples.
Authorities reassured the public that the monkeys are not a health risk, as they are too young to carry diseases and have not been used for testing. Police Chief Gregory Alexander emphasized there is “almost no danger to the public.”
This is not the first escape from the facility. Previous incidents include the escape of 19 monkeys in 2016 and 26 in 2014. Congresswoman Nancy Mace said her office is gathering information to keep residents informed about the ongoing search.
The town of Yemassee, located about 60 miles east of Charleston, has a population of just under 1,100 residents.
