Mon Nov 11 09:05:45 UTC 2024: ## Over 40 Monkeys Escape From Lowcountry Breeding Facility
YEMASSEE, SC – More than 40 monkeys escaped from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee on November 6th, 2024, prompting a large-scale search effort. The escaped primates are juvenile female rhesus monkeys, weighing approximately 6 pounds each.
The monkeys, which are bred for medical research and testing, escaped after a caretaker left two doors unsecured while cleaning their enclosure. Despite their escape, the company insists the monkeys pose no threat to the public, as they are disease-free and have never been used for testing.
Alpha Genesis is leading the recapture efforts, using traps and thermal imaging cameras to locate the monkeys. Police are also assisting in the search and advising residents to keep doors and windows closed to prevent the monkeys from entering homes. Anyone encountering the primates is urged to call 911.
This is not the first time Alpha Genesis has experienced a primate escape. In 2016, 19 monkeys escaped from the facility, but were returned within six hours.
The facility has faced scrutiny in the past for its security measures and record of violations. Federal inspections have identified numerous issues related to animal welfare, including improper cleaning, temperature maintenance, and unsecured enclosures.
While the current escape has raised concerns, some residents remain unconcerned, having previously encountered monkeys from the facility in the surrounding area.
The incident comes amidst increasing scrutiny of the use of primates in research and medical testing. The escape highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and security of research animals, particularly those with the potential to impact public health.
First Piper 