Yemassee Police Recover One Escaped Monkey; Search Continues for Remaining Primates
YEMASSEE, S.C. –
The Yemassee Police Department has successfully recovered one of the monkeys that escaped from a local facility, while the search for 42 others continues. The monkeys reportedly escaped recently and have been spotted near the Alpha Genesis facility, where they are currently avoiding traps set by staff to capture them.
Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard shared an update following the recovery of the first monkey, noting that the animal was found unharmed in a trap while it was munching on apples. “She is safe and sound and has since had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich,” Westergaard stated. He mentioned that more traps would be deployed as the situation develops, indicating that the recovery process would be gradual.
The monkeys are currently behaving more calmly than when they first escaped. “They were having a nap this afternoon,” Westergaard commented. The monkeys seem to be spending their time close to the facility, playing and interacting in the nearby woods while keeping an eye on the Alpha Genesis staff. It appears that local cleanup crews are providing them with food they are used to, such as fruits and vegetables, with the hopes of drawing them into traps.
“There’s been multiple sightings overnight and throughout the day in the adjacent woods,” said Westergaard. The monkeys have been observed crossing back and forth between their home property and adjacent land, indicating that they have settled into a routine in their temporary habitat. “They seem at ease and are playing like juvenile monkeys will,” he added.
Residents of Yemassee have expressed familiarity with the monkeys, as the community is accustomed to the presence of these primates from the nearby “monkey farm.” Local resident Issac Washington, who was involved in construction when the facility was built, mentioned, “I walk by that monkey farm every day. If I see something, I got my phone and I’m going to call.”
With over 40 monkeys calculated to be roaming, each weighing around six to seven pounds, community members are vigilant but not overly concerned. Washington estimates they have visual confirmation of about 30 of them while believing the remaining 13 may be deeper in the woods.
“None of them have gone into the traps yet, but we are confident that we can capture more in the next few days,” Westergaard reassured. He emphasized that the priority is to help the monkeys relax and become comfortable enough to return to their enclosures without stress.
Westergaard also reassured the public that the monkeys pose no threat to people, as they have not been tested on due to their young age. “They were just screened a month ago, and everybody’s perfectly clean—no viruses, no contagious viruses,” he noted. He emphasized that the staff at Alpha Genesis are keeping everything separated to prevent any contamination.
As the recovery operation continues, authorities have advised local residents to avoid entering the area around Alpha Genesis to prevent startling the monkeys. Residents who spot any remaining monkeys have been instructed to call 911 and avoid any direct interaction with these animals, as they could become frightened if approached.
With more traps being set up and plans in place for the ongoing recovery efforts, everyone is hopeful for a successful resolution to this unusual situation.
