Yemassee, South Carolina: Escape of 43 Research Monkeys Sparks Community Interest
In a surprising event, forty-three monkeys bred for medical research have escaped from a facility in Yemassee, South Carolina. This incident occurred on Wednesday, November 7, 2024, when an employee failed to completely secure a door while tending to the animals at the Alpha Genesis compound. This facility is known for breeding rhesus macaque monkeys, which are often sold to medical researchers.
What Happened?
The escape began when an employee was feeding the monkeys. The primates took their opportunity to venture out, with others following along. Greg Westergaard, CEO of Alpha Genesis, commented, “They are very social monkeys and they travel in groups.” Since the escape, the monkeys have been spotted in nearby woods, where authorities are currently using food to lure them back.
Safety Measures and Public Concerns
The local police department has reassured the public that there is no immediate danger. According to officials, the monkeys exhibit calm and playful behavior, which indicates that they are not posing a threat. The authorities have advised residents living near the compound, approximately 1 mile from downtown Yemassee, to keep their windows and doors shut and contact them if they see the monkeys. Police Chief Gregory Alexander stated, “They are not infected with any disease whatsoever. They are harmless and a little skittish.”
Community Reaction
In Yemassee, a town with a population of about 1,100, the reaction has been mixed. Many residents have found amusement in the situation rather than fear. William McCoy, a local clock repair shop owner, mentioned that the monkeys typically return because the food source is at the compound. He humorously suggested, “I’m stocking up bananas, maybe they’ll show up.”
Background on Alpha Genesis
Alpha Genesis is located roughly 50 miles northeast of Savannah, Georgia, and has been involved in breeding primates since the late 1800s. Rhesus macaques are popular in scientific research due to their genetic similarities to humans, sharing about 93% of DNA. These monkeys have historically been used for various research purposes, significantly contributing to advances in medicine.
There have been previous escape incidents from Alpha Genesis, with 26 monkeys escaping in 2014 and another 19 in 2016. However, none of these incidents resulted in significant public problems. Federal inspections of the facility have frequently occurred, with the most recent one in May of this year noting the presence of about 6,700 primates. Experts and animal rights groups often monitor the site’s practices closely.
Potential Risks and Expert Opinions
While local officials believe the escaped monkeys do not pose a health risk, some experts advise caution. Eve Cooper, a biology professor, warned that rhesus macaques can be aggressive and may harbor diseases, including the herpes B virus, which can be deadly in humans. Still, Alpha Genesis asserts that the monkeys involved in this incident have been bred to be pathogen-free.
As authorities and Alpha Genesis staff work to recapture the monkeys, it remains unclear when or how the situation will resolve. The community continues to watch with a mix of curiosity and concern as the monkeys enjoy their newfound freedom within the trees surrounding their former home.
