YEMASSEE, USA — Authorities in Beaufort County are continuing their search for 43 young female monkeys that escaped from a medical research facility in rural South Carolina on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
The breakout at Alpha Genesis, a research institution known for its primate-based studies, was reportedly caused by human error after a caretaker failed to properly secure two doors in a new enclosure, allowing the animals to slip out into nearby woods.
The Yemassee Police Department urged local residents to lock their doors and windows and to avoid contact with the monkeys.
“These animals are highly sensitive and easily startled, we recommend that the public avoid the area to prevent frightening them further,” police said in a statement, adding that any sightings should be reported immediately by calling 911.
To safely recapture the primates, Alpha Genesis staff are setting up one-way traps baited with apples.
The monkeys, which weigh between 6 to 7 pounds, are too young to have participated in clinical trials, the facility said, but questions remain about the potential risks associated with the animals.
Greg Westergaard, CEO of Alpha Genesis, attributed the escape to “purely human error” during routine cleaning and feeding.
The facility, which has previously experienced an escape incident involving 11 monkeys in 2022, conducts research for various clients, including studies on brain disorders.
The company also operates a federally contracted colony of 3,500 monkeys on South Carolina’s Morgan Island, often referred to as “Monkey Island.”
This recent escape has reignited debates over the ethics of primate testing.
Kathleen Conlee, vice president of animal research issues for the Humane Society of the United States, called for a halt to such experiments.
“These intelligent, social animals deserve protection, not exploitation. Congress must reject further investments in primate research infrastructure and instead focus on funding ethical, non-animal alternatives that are more effective, humane, and cost taxpayers less money,” she stated.
Lisa Jones-Engel, a primate scientist with PETA, echoed these concerns, criticising the industry’s practices.
“The monkey experimentation industry has consistently failed to improve human health, and instead their actions continue to put the public at risk,” she said.
As the search continues, Alpha Genesis and local authorities are urging caution, with residents advised to stay vigilant and report any sightings.
