Dozens of monkeys run amok after fleeing S.C. research center

Lab animals terrorize Lowcountry neighborhood, forcing residents to take up arms.

Authorities are searching for dozens of monkeys that escaped from a South Carolina research facility over the weekend, wreaking havoc in a nearby neighborhood and forcing some residents to arm themselves for protection.

Monkeys on the Loose

The monkeys, mostly marmosets and tamarins, escaped from the Primate Center at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston on Saturday. They quickly spread out into the surrounding area, climbing trees, leaping onto roofs, and raiding gardens.

Residents reported seeing the monkeys tearing down bird feeders, stealing food from yards, and even peering into windows. One woman said she was chased by a group of monkeys as she was walking her dog.

Armed and Dangerous

As the monkeys became more aggressive, some residents began arming themselves. One man told reporters that he fired a warning shot into the air to scare away a group of monkeys that were trying to break into his home.

Authorities urged residents not to approach the monkeys or try to capture them. They said the animals could be carrying diseases and could be dangerous if cornered.

Search and Rescue

Police and animal control officers are searching for the monkeys, but their efforts have been hampered by the dense vegetation in the area. The monkeys are also very agile and difficult to catch.

The Primate Center said it is working with authorities to recapture the monkeys and return them to the facility. The center said the monkeys are used in research on infectious diseases and other medical conditions.

Public Health Concerns

The escape of the monkeys has raised concerns about public health. The monkeys could be carrying diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as tuberculosis and herpes B virus.

Health officials are urging residents to avoid contact with the monkeys and to report any sightings to the authorities.

Conclusion

The escape of the monkeys from the Primate Center is a reminder of the potential dangers of keeping wild animals in captivity. The monkeys could pose a serious threat to public health and safety if they are not recaptured soon.