More than 40 monkeys flee research center in THIS city; advisory issued

On Wednesday afternoon, 43 rhesus macaques escaped from the Alpha Genesis primate research facility in Yemassee, South Carolina, following an incident in which a caretaker reportedly left doors unsecured. Originally thought to be 40, the number of escaped primates—described as "very young females" weighing around 6 to 7 pounds—was later updated to 43, according to Yemassee Police.


The monkeys are still on loose and the police have advised the residents to maintain their distance. As per some media reports, some monkeys weighing around six pounds and feeding on fruit and insects — were seen scampering across a warehouse roof and gathering near a local food pantry.



The CEO of the research facility, Greg Westergaard, told NBC News, that the incident was caused by human error, as the caretaker responsible for routine cleaning and feeding failed to secure two separate doors in a new enclosure. Police confirmed that the monkeys have never been used for testing due to their young ages and small size. A spokesperson from Alpha Genesis also told the authorities that "these animals are too young to carry disease." The animals are thought to be in the wooded area surrounding the facility, and officers are assisting Alpha Genesis staff in efforts to coax the monkeys back using food to lure them.


In a statement, it was advised by Yemassee police that the area be avoided by the public to prevent further distress of the animals, as they are highly sensitive and easily startled. They further stated that if spotted, residents are to inform the authorities immediately.


However, this is not the first of kind incident. In 2016, 19 monkeys escaped from Alpha Genesis but were captured almost six hours later, according to The Post and Courier, while 26 monkeys escaped in December 2014. As per their website, Alpha Genesis conducts research projects for government, university, and private industry clients. Across two sites from Africa, South America, and the Caribbean, Alpha Genesis has approximately 5,000 monkeys. Species include marmosets, cynomolgus and rhesus macaques, African Greens, and several New World species.


The facility claims to have an "experienced and caring staff" that is "dedicated to conducting humane research with nonhuman primates to advance knowledge in primate biology and to address human health concerns."