News Summary
After a two-month adventure in the woods, the last four of 43 rhesus macaque monkeys that escaped from a Yemassee research facility have been recaptured. The escape began in November 2017 when a security lapse at the facility allowed the monkeys to roam free. During their time outside, the area experienced unusual snowfall, adding to the intrigue of their adventure. While the facility faced scrutiny regarding its practices, all monkeys are reported safe and healthy after their unexpected escapade.
Exciting Turn of Events in Yemassee as Rhesus Macaque Monkeys are Recaptured After Two-Month Adventure
In the charming town of Yemassee, South Carolina, residents can finally breathe a sigh of relief! The last four of 43 rhesus macaque monkeys that made a daring escape from a local research facility have been successfully recaptured after a two-month escapade in the woods.
How It All Started
It all began on a chilly November day in 2017 when an employee at the Alpha Genesis breeding facility, which the locals affectionately named the “monkey farm,” failed to securely lock the monkeys’ enclosure. When news broke out on November 6 that these monkeys had broken free, local authorities were put on high alert. The critters were last seen scurrying away, embarking on what turned out to be quite an unexpected journey into the wild.
These little adventurers were living off the land—or at least trying to—until their eventual recapture on a recent Friday. Interestingly, during their time outside, the area experienced its first snowfall in seven years, with reports of up to three inches of snow blanketing the ground! Talk about a winter wonderland for those cheeky monkeys!
Life in the Wild
So, what was life like for the monkeys out there? Surprisingly, they mostly stayed close to the facility, according to updates from the CEO of Alpha Genesis. These adorable monkeys weigh in at about 7 pounds and are known for their inquisitive nature. Although they may have roamed free, they were never far from home.
To recapture the mischievous escapees, Alpha Guard employees set out humane traps baited with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—a clever choice! Meanwhile, news of their capers drew mixed reactions from community members, with some expressing joy at the notion of this little adventure, while others voiced concerns about their safety.”
Challenges Faced by the Facility
While the monkeys were running wild, it was reported that multiple gates at the facility were left unsecured, prompting an investigation into the employee’s actions. The person responsible for the security lapse left the facility after the incident, further emphasizing the need for stricter protocols in safeguarding these primates.
Scrutiny surrounding the facility grew amid allegations of misconduct. It was noted that the USDA is currently investigating complaints about the treatment of monkeys inside Alpha Genesis. Over the past decade, this facility has received over $130 million in funding from the Department of Health and Human Services for their breeding programs related to medical research.
The Great Reunion
On a brighter note, after the adventure wrapped up, officials reported that all 43 monkeys were safely accounted for and in good health. Community reports of one monkey allegedly being struck by a vehicle were dismissed, providing peace of mind to those worried about their well-being. The final four monkeys were spotted together in the trees, reminding everyone of their playful spirit.
In a show of gratitude, the folks at Alpha Genesis took to social media to thank the community for their support and cooperation during the adventurous two months. Still, the facility faced backlash from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), who continued to criticize the facility’s practices and demanded proof of the monkeys’ safe return.
A Reflection on the Event
As the dust settles, this tale of the four adventurous monkeys has generated conversation about animal treatment and the responsibilities that come with caring for such remarkable creatures. While they brought some light-hearted excitement to Yemassee, the escape also raised serious questions that the facility must now address to ensure the safety and welfare of its animal inhabitants.
Watch this space for any further developments from the “monkey farm,” as it continues to navigate the winds of change in the wake of such curious circumstances!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Live 5 News
- Google Search: escaped monkeys Yemassee
- Fox Weather
- Google Scholar: monkey escape Yemassee
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhesus macaque
- Island Packet
- Google News: Alpha Genesis monkeys
- Bluffton Today
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
