On November 7, 2024, a surprising escape occurred at the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, South Carolina, where 43 rhesus macaque monkeys got loose after an employee accidentally left a door unlocked. Though these young monkeys haven’t been involved in testing or exposed to diseases, local authorities have urged residents to keep their windows and doors secure to avoid any encounters.
Efforts to capture the monkeys have included traps and thermal imaging technology. However, capturing them has proven challenging, as they scatter quickly when approached. The center has encountered similar incidents in the past, including an escape in 2016 that was resolved swiftly.
What to Do if You Spot One of the Monkeys
Officials are urging anyone who sees one of these monkeys not to approach or attempt to capture it. Despite their small size, rhesus macaques can become defensive when scared or cornered. Instead, locals should call animal control or local law enforcement to report the sighting. Handling them without proper experience can lead to bites or scratches, which may require medical treatment. Additionally, it is illegal to keep these monkeys as pets, even if they seem harmless.