Search continues for 43 monkeys that escaped South Carolina research facility

YEMASSEE, S.C. (WCBD) – The search continues Thursday for more than 40 primates that escaped from a research facility in the Yemassee community.

Officials with the Yemassee Police Department said 43 Rhesus macaques left Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center on Castle Hall Road around 1 p.m. Wednesday. So far, none have been captured.

The primates are described as very young females weighing roughly 6-7 lbs. Police said the animals had never been used for testing because of their young age and weight. A spokesperson from the facility confirmed through the Yemassee Police that the animals are too young to carry disease.

“We want to assure the community that there is no health risk associated with these animals,” the department said.

Traps have been strategically placed in the area to safely capture the animals, and the department is working with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and state agricultural and wildlife officials to “manage the incident effectively and humanely.”

Police say staff from Alpha Genesis have eyes on the primates and are working to entice them with food. The public is encouraged to avoid the area because the monkeys can be skittish, and any additional noise or movement could hinder their safe capture.

For now, residents are asked to keep their doors and windows securely closed to keep the primates from entering homes. “If you spot any escaped animals, do not approach them and call 911 immediately,” the department said.

News 2 has reached out to Alpha Genesis for additional information. We are waiting to hear back.