The Great Monkey Escape in South Carolina – What Happened in Yemassee?

In a story that has taken locals and social media by storm, dozens of monkeys in South Carolina recently broke out of their enclosure in Yemassee, S.C. The unusual incident took place at the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center, which is known for breeding primates for research purposes. The monkeys’ escape has raised concerns about safety practices at the facility and sparked widespread public interest in the monkeys and their unexpected adventure.

How Did the Monkeys Escape in South Carolina?

According to statements from Yemassee police and Alpha Genesis, the monkeys escaped on November 6, 2024, when a caretaker left two doors unsecured while cleaning the enclosure. This accidental security breach allowed 43 female monkeys to escape the facility. The monkeys could not be immediately located, and local authorities, including police equipped with thermal imaging cameras, are assisting Alpha Genesis in recapturing them.

A History of Monkey Escapes and Security Violations in Yemassee, SC

This is not the first time monkeys have escaped from Alpha Genesis in Yemassee, South Carolina. The facility has a history of safety challenges and federal inspections have previously uncovered issues with containment practices. In one notable incident in 2016, 19 monkeys managed to escape, though they were recaptured within a few hours.

Most recently, a USDA inspection in 2023 found non-critical violations at the facility that were reportedly corrected. The violations cited included issues with cleaning protocols, enclosure safety, and handling of the facility’s sharp edges that posed a risk to the animals.

Why Are Monkeys Being Kept in South Carolina?

The Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, SC, is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the United States, housing more than 6,700 primates. The facility breeds monkeys primarily for medical research and testing, serving the needs of both national and international research institutions. Rhesus macaques, a highly intelligent species known to be similar to humans in terms of behavior and biology, are commonly bred here. They have historically been used in a variety of studies ranging from psychological research to disease treatments and vaccine testing.

The Fascinating Connection to South Carolina’s “Monkey Island”

Alpha Genesis also manages Morgan Island, commonly known as “Monkey Island,” located off the coast of Beaufort County. This unique island, also in South Carolina, is home to more than 3,500 rhesus monkeys. These primates live in a natural setting and can only be accessed by researchers. Morgan Island has become a local attraction, which has contributed to widespread public interest in the recent Yemassee monkey escape.

Public Reaction to the Monkeys on the Loose

Residents around Yemassee, SC, have taken the situation in stride. Local businesswoman Charlotte Murray said it’s common for her to see monkeys in the area, which is also colloquially referred to as the “monkey farm.” However, local officials are urging people to take safety precautions. While the monkeys are reportedly not dangerous and don’t carry any diseases, Yemassee police have advised residents to keep doors and windows securely closed. They have also warned against approaching or trying to catch the animals, as capturing them is considered a crime.

Why Are People So Interested in This Monkey Escape?

The escape has attracted attention both locally and nationally. The escape of dozens of monkeys in South Carolina has generated a mix of curiosity and concern. On social media, people are fascinated by the monkeys’ unexpected freedom and the irony of their escape from a facility designed to keep them confined for research purposes.

In addition, there is continued discussion about the ethical aspects of breeding primates for research. Animal rights advocates have previously raised concerns about Alpha Genesis’ track record, which includes animal welfare violations and federal fines. This latest incident has intensified discussions about the responsibilities of such facilities in maintaining safety, animal welfare, and public transparency.

What Happens Next for the Escaped Monkeys in Yemassee, SC?

Alpha Genesis has set baited traps and is working with police to recover the primates. However, heavy rain has impacted search efforts, as the monkeys have taken shelter. Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard has said the team is following protocol, using humane trapping methods and tracking the monkeys’ movements.

So far, the escapees have not ventured far from the facility, though Alpha Genesis in Yemassee, South Carolina, is committed to finding them and returning them safely to their enclosures. Search efforts include collaboration with state agriculture and wildlife officials to ensure humane and effective recapture.

The Bigger Picture: Are More Monkeys Likely to Escape?

While Alpha Genesis is one of the few primate facilities in the country, its history of safety lapses has raised questions about containment standards and safety protocols. The USDA has issued warnings to the facility in the past, and Alpha Genesis has faced fines for failing to meet certain animal welfare standards. If additional safety violations occur, the company could face further investigation, potentially leading to more stringent federal monitoring or penalties.

What Residents Should Know about Future Escapes

With public interest in the monkeys of Yemassee, SC and the continued search for escaped monkeys, it is important for residents to stay informed and vigilant. Here are some guidelines for people in the area:

Stay indoors: Keeping doors and windows closed can help prevent monkeys from entering the house.
Report Sightings: If you spot any of the monkeys, contact 911 immediately.
Do Not Approach: While the monkeys are not considered dangerous, attempting to handle them can be harmful to both people and animals. Leave their capture to professionals.

The Future of Alpha Genesis and Primate Research in South Carolina

The Yemassee, SC monkey escape incident highlights both the curiosity and complexities surrounding primate research facilities. The Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center plays a vital role in medical advancements, but incidents like this underscore the importance of maintaining ethical and safe practices. This recent incident serves as a reminder for facilities to consistently maintain high standards to prevent future incidents.

As the fascination with monkeys continues in South Carolina, the outcome of this escape will likely affect public perception, facility operations, and potentially even future regulations on primate research. In the meantime, officials at Alpha Genesis and Yemassee are working to get the wandering monkeys back to a safe location.

Latest Article