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A search is underway for 40 monkeys that escaped from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, South Carolina. The escape occurred on Wednesday (November 6), and local authorities have warned residents to stay away from the animals. The Yemassee police department advised residents to keep doors and windows secured to prevent the monkeys from entering their homes. Anyone who spots one of the escaped animals is urged to contact 911 immediately and refrain from approaching them.
The escaped monkeys are from the Alpha Genesis research center, which describes itself as "primate research specialists." The company provides nonhuman primate products and bio-research services worldwide. The specific breed of the escaped primates has not been disclosed, but the company's website indicates that it works with macaque and capuchin monkeys.
Police have set up traps around the area and are using thermal imaging cameras to locate the animals. Multiple officers are working with Alpha Genesis personnel to recapture the monkeys. This is not the first time Alpha Genesis has dealt with escaped animals. In 2016, 19 monkeys escaped from the facility but were returned after six hours.