Monkey Mayhem in South Carolina after 43 Primates Escape Research Facility

Escaped Monkeys Cause Chaos in Fort Mill Neighborhood

Residents of Fort Mill, South Carolina, were in for a wild surprise when 43 primates escaped from a nearby research facility on Tuesday, May 24th, 2023. The escaped monkeys, mostly marmosets and tamarins, were part of a research colony at the University of South Carolina.

The monkeys were discovered missing during a routine headcount, and authorities were immediately notified. A massive search operation was launched, involving local police, animal control, and volunteers from the community. The monkeys were found scattered throughout a wooded area near the facility.

Community Rallies to Assist Capture Efforts

The escaped monkeys caused quite a stir in the Fort Mill community. Residents reported seeing monkeys in their backyards, on their roofs, and even in their cars. Some monkeys were even seen crossing busy roads, causing traffic delays.

Despite the potential danger, the community rallied together to help capture the escaped animals. Volunteers set up traps and baited them with fruit and nuts. Animal control officers used tranquilizer darts to subdue the monkeys, and they were safely returned to the research facility.

University Apologizes for Incident

The University of South Carolina issued a statement apologizing for the escape and thanking the community for their assistance in recapturing the monkeys. The university said that the monkeys were part of a research project studying the effects of environmental toxins on primate behavior.

The university also said that it is reviewing its security measures to prevent future escapes. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is also investigating the incident.

Concerns Raised About Animal Welfare

The escape of the monkeys has raised concerns about the welfare of animals used in research. Animal rights activists have called for stricter regulations on the use of primates in research.

The university said that the monkeys were well-cared for and that their escape was an isolated incident. However, the incident has sparked a debate about the ethical treatment of animals in research.

Conclusion

The escape of 43 monkeys from a research facility in South Carolina caused chaos in the community but also brought people together to help recapture the animals. The incident has raised concerns about the welfare of animals used in research and sparked a debate about the ethical treatment of animals.