Rhesus Macaques in Yemassee
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In Yemassee, South Carolina, a bizarre incident unfolded when 43 young female rhesus macaque monkeys escaped from a research facility. After roaming free for two months, the monkeys engaged with the local environment, raising both excitement and concern. Authorities launched extensive search efforts to recapture them, ultimately succeeding with baited traps. The community remained vigilant during this time, fostering unity amid the chaos. Fortunately, all captured monkeys were found healthy, and the experience highlighted the adaptability of these playful primates.
In a rather unusual turn of events, the small town of Yemassee, South Carolina, found itself at the center of a wild monkey chase after 43 young female rhesus macaque monkeys managed to escape from a nearby research facility. This unexpected incident ignited a wave of excitement and concern among local residents as news spread of the escape.
The escape occurred at the Alpha Genesis facility located about a mile from downtown Yemassee. A caretaker accidentally left a door unlatched, allowing the monkeys, who weigh around 6-7 lbs each, to venture out into the great outdoors. It’s worth noting that these monkeys had never been used for testing due to their young age.
For roughly two months, the monkeys roamed freely through the surrounding areas. Local law enforcement urged residents to keep their doors and windows locked while they launched search efforts to recapture the escapees. Officers from the Yemassee Police Department reported seeing the monkeys playing in a nearby wooded region, leading to a multi-faceted response that included setting up baited traps and thermal imaging cameras to track their movements.
While some may envision chaos ensuing from the monkeys’ escape, the reality was more playful than problematic. Authorities observed the monkeys acting mischievous and engaging in the kind of carefree behavior you might expect from young animals exploring their temporary freedom. This highlighted their adaptability and comfort in blending with various environments, including suburban settings.
Despite their playful antics, the escaped monkeys did raise a few eyebrows among health officials. Some species of monkeys can carry the B virus, which poses a health risk to humans. The CDC, which monitors nationwide issues involving nonhuman primates, issued a reminder for the public to avoid approaching any monkeys they might encounter and to contact 911 if they see one.
After weeks of chasing, the last four monkeys were finally recaptured, bringing an end to their wild two-month escapade that even included surviving a rare snowstorm. The final capture occurred with the help of baited traps and some classic human ingenuity—Who could resist a delicious peanut butter and jelly sandwich? It certainly did the trick!
Great news for those who were keeping track! All the captured monkeys were confirmed to be healthy as they were brought back into the facility. The CEO of Alpha Genesis expressed immense gratitude for the community’s support throughout the trying ordeal, reinforcing a sense of local togetherness in facing this uncommon situation.
This wasn’t the first time Alpha Genesis had to tackle monkey escapades—eight years prior, 19 monkeys made a break for it, reminding everyone that sometimes these playful primates are just too clever for their own good. Alpha Genesis primarily breeds monkeys for medical research, marking them as an important part of ongoing advancements in healthcare, and are registered with the CDC for the importation and use of nonhuman primates.
While the incident may have initially sent shockwaves through the town, it has fostered an unexpected sense of unity and cooperation among residents and local authorities. Everyone banded together to ensure safety and successfully recapture the mischievous escapees.
So, there you have it, folks! A whirlwind monkey chase that reminded many of the quirky adventures life can throw our way. Here’s hoping that the remaining monkeys at Alpha Genesis stay inside and further adventures remain firmly in the imagination!
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