5 more monkeys recovered after escape from South Carolina research facility

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)—Authorities announced Monday that five additional monkeys had been recovered after nearly four dozen escaped from a South Carolina research facility.

Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard told Yemassee police that 30 of the 43 escaped rhesus macaques have returned to the Yemassee facility. Thirteen female primates remain on the loose.

Westergaard said all the returned monkeys appeared to be in good health. They all weigh between 6 and 7 pounds and were never used for testing due to their age and weight.

“Veterinarians have been diligently conducting thorough wellness exams throughout the day. Initial reports from the veterinary team indicate that all recovered animals are in good health,” said the Yemassee Police Department in a previous update.

Recovery efforts will continue until all the animals are returned. Law enforcement reinforced the call for the public to avoid the area. They also said drones are not allowed near the facility as they can stress the animals further.

After recapturing 24 on Sunday, officials said the monkeys were staying near the fence line of the facility.

Anyone who sees an escaped monkey is asked to call 911 and report the sighting. Do not interact with the animal.

The young primates escaped on Nov. 6 after an employee did not fully shut an enclosure.

Soon after, a land surveyor spotted monkeys running through nearby woods during his lunch break. He said he called Alpha Genesis to report what he saw immediately.

A facility spokesperson confirmed after the escape that the animals did not carry disease.