Monkey Alert: Survey Worker Discovers Escaped Monkeys in South Carolina

Animal Welfare Authorities Issue Urgent Warning

Escaped Monkeys Pose Potential Health and Safety Risks

A survey worker in South Carolina has reported a sighting of two escaped monkeys, prompting animal welfare authorities to issue an urgent warning to residents. The monkeys, which are believed to be marmosets, were reportedly spotted in the Lowcountry region of the state. Marmosets are small, New World monkeys native to the rainforests of South America. They are social animals that live in groups of 2-8 individuals and are known for their territorial behavior. They are also known to be agile and can move quickly through trees. While marmosets are not typically considered dangerous to humans, they can carry diseases and may become aggressive if threatened.

Marmosets: Small but Capable of Causing Problems

The escaped monkeys were reportedly seen near a wooded area, and it is believed that they may have escaped from a nearby research facility. The facility, which studies marmosets for biomedical research, has confirmed that two of its animals are missing. Authorities are currently searching for the monkeys, and they are asking residents to be on the lookout and to report any sightings.

Important Safety Precautions for Residents

While the monkeys are not considered to be a major threat to humans, animal welfare authorities are urging residents to take precautions. They are asking residents to avoid approaching the monkeys, as they may become frightened and aggressive. Residents are also being asked to keep their pets indoors and to secure any food sources that may attract the animals.

Public Health Concerns

In addition to the potential safety risks, there are also concerns about the public health implications of the escaped monkeys. Marmosets can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as yellow fever and malaria. It is therefore important for residents to take precautions to avoid contact with the animals and to report any sightings to the authorities.

Cooperative Effort to Recapture Monkeys

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is leading the effort to recapture the escaped monkeys. The SCDNR is working with the research facility and with local law enforcement to search for the animals. The SCDNR is also using drones and other technology to help locate the monkeys.

Ongoing Investigation into Monkey Escape

The SCDNR is also investigating the circumstances surrounding the escape of the monkeys. The agency is working to determine how the monkeys escaped and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Additional Information and Resources

For more information on the escaped monkeys and on the precautions that residents should take, please visit the SCDNR website or call the SCDNR at 1-800-277-4301. You can also report sightings of the monkeys by calling the SCDNR at 1-800-277-4301.