43 Primates Escape Research Facility in South Carolina

Source: Ludovic Debono / Getty

A small town in South Carolina is caught in the middle of some serious monkey business.

CNN reports that 43 rhesus macaque monkeys escaped the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, SC on Wednesday (Nov. 6).

“Residents are strongly advised to keep doors and windows secured to prevent these animals from entering homes,” the Yemassee Police Department said in a Facebook post.

In an update sent before noon, police said Alpha Genesis had eyes on the monkeys. They were in the process of trying to lure them with food.

Police advise anyone who spots the missing monkeys to refrain from interacting and call 911 immediately. The monkeys – all female and between 6-7 pounds – have never been used for testing and are too young to carry diseases.

“They are described as being very skittish and will congregate in groups,” Garnes said. He added that the monkeys are not violent, but they may be restless because of hunger.

Traps have been set by authorities, who are using thermal imaging cameras to find them. Police are also working with Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and state agricultural/wildlife officials.

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