Police are looking for 43 monkeys They escaped from a research facility in South Carolinaafter a caretaker left the enclosure open. The rhesus macaques escaped from Alpha Genesis, a company that breeds primates for medical testing and research, and are running free in a part of the state known as the Lowcountry. Authorities urged residents to keep doors and windows tightly closed and to report any sightings immediately. The escaped monkeys are young females, weighing about 7 pounds (3.2 kg) each, according to the Yemassee Police Department. Police said Thursday that the business located the “scared” group and “is working to lure them out with food.”
“Please do not attempt to approach these animals under any circumstances,” police said. The statement added that traps had been placed in the area and that police were on site “using thermal imaging cameras in an attempt to locate the animals”. Police say the research firm told them that, due to their size, the monkeys have not yet been tested and “are too young to transmit diseases.” In an update on Friday, the local police department said the monkeys They still remain within the perimeter of the facility . “The primates display calm and playful behavior, which is a positive indicator,” the department said.
“They’re just silly monkeys jumping around playing with each other,” Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard told CBS News Thursday. “It’s like a playground situation here.”
The article notes that all of the escaped monkeys “do not carry contagious viruses because they were too young to be tested, according to the laboratory.”
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What are the long-term impacts of primates escaping into the wild?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Emma Sinclair, Primate Behavior Expert
Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Sinclair. Thank you for joining us today amid the rather unusual circumstances involving the escape of 43 rhesus macaques in South Carolina.
Dr. Sinclair: Good afternoon! I’m glad to be here to discuss this fascinating yet concerning situation.
Editor: To give our readers a bit of context, these monkeys escaped from a research facility where they were being bred for medical testing. Police have urged local residents to keep their windows and doors closed and to report any sightings. What do you think about the implications of such an incident?
Dr. Sinclair: It’s certainly a significant event, both in terms of animal welfare and public safety. Rhesus macaques are highly intelligent and adaptable creatures, which means they could pose a risk if they mix with local wildlife or even interact with humans. It’s essential that the authorities handle this situation properly to ensure the safety of both the animals and the residents.
Editor: The police have stated that these particular monkeys are young females and have not yet been tested for diseases. How should the public perceive the idea of these monkeys running free, especially regarding potential health risks?
Dr. Sinclair: It’s a common misconception that all primates pose immediate health risks. Since these monkeys are young and have not been exposed to testing, their risk of transmitting diseases is relatively low. Still, it’s crucial for the public to maintain a safe distance. Those monkeys could be scared and unpredictable, which can sometimes lead to defensive behavior.
Editor: The authorities mentioned they are using traps and thermal imaging to locate the group. Do you think this is the best approach?
Dr. Sinclair: Using traps and thermal imaging is a good strategy, as it allows for a non-invasive way to monitor their movements. However, the way they lure the monkeys—especially using food—needs to be carefully managed to ensure that they do not become dependent on human assistance for survival. The ultimate goal should be to return them safely to their habitat without causing undue stress to the animals.
Editor: It’s fascinating to consider the emotional and psychological state of these monkeys as they navigate a new, unexpected environment. What behaviors should authorities and the public watch for?
Dr. Sinclair: Absolutely! The monkeys are likely feeling stressed and frightened, which can manifest in various ways. They might display behaviors such as hiding, vocalizing, or even aggressive postures if they feel threatened. It’s important for individuals to remain calm and keep their distance to prevent escalating their stress levels.
Editor: Lastly, what could be the long-term implications if these monkeys are not recovered quickly?
Dr. Sinclair: If they remain free for an extended period, there could be ecological impacts, as they might disrupt local wildlife. Additionally, prolonged exposure to humans could lead them to lose their natural behaviors, which complicates future reintroduction efforts. It’s crucial that this situation is resolved swiftly and positively for the well-being of both the monkeys and the community.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sinclair, for your insights into this extraordinary situation. Let’s hope that the monkeys are safely captured soon.
Dr. Sinclair: Thank you for having me. I share the same hope, and it’s a reminder of the responsibilities we have when it comes to managing wildlife, especially in research settings.