Authorities in Yemassee, South Carolina, are working diligently to recover the remaining six monkeys that escaped from a local compound earlier this month. The monkeys, Rhesus macaques, are bred for medical research at the Alpha Genesis facility. As of now, 37 of the 43 escaped monkeys have been successfully recaptured, with two more being trapped on Sunday.
The CEO of Alpha Genesis, Greg Westergaard, expressed relief that the recovered monkeys were found to be in excellent condition. He mentioned that the monkeys appeared to be happy and well-adjusted despite their outdoor escapade. Efforts to locate and secure the remaining monkeys are ongoing, with trapping operations scheduled to continue.
The monkeys, each about the size of a cat and weighing around 7 pounds, are not considered a threat to public health. Alpha Genesis, along with federal health officials and local police, have assured the public of this fact. The facility breeds these monkeys for sale to medical institutions and researchers.
Rhesus macaques have been used in scientific research for over a century due to their genetic similarities to humans. They share approximately 93% of their DNA with humans, making them valuable subjects for various studies.
If individuals come across any of the escaped monkeys, they are advised to avoid approaching them. The monkeys are described as skittish and likely to flee if disturbed. Additionally, the public is urged not to fly drones in the area where the monkeys are being gathered to prevent any unnecessary disruptions.
