**Free-Roaming Monkeys in South Carolina: Fun-Loving Primates Relishing Liberty**
If you’re seeking a bit of enjoyable motivation for relaxing this weekend, consider taking inspiration from a troop of playful monkeys in South Carolina. Recently, 43 young female rhesus macaques made their escape from a research facility in Yemassee, SC, and as of Friday, they were still reveling in their newfound liberty, cheerfully exploring the facility’s perimeter.
### The Grand Escape
The escape took place on Wednesday when a caretaker at the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Facility neglected to properly latch the doors, enabling the monkeys to break free. Despite their liberation, the monkeys have remained near the facility, seemingly happy to frolic around the perimeter fence. The Yemassee Police Department reported that the primates are demonstrating “calm and playful behavior,” indicating they are not stressed or upset by their escape.
In a Facebook update, the police reassured the community that the monkeys do not pose any health risks. The young rhesus macaques weigh only about 6 or 7 pounds each and have not participated in any testing. They are free of diseases, and there is no imminent danger to the public. However, locals have been advised to secure their doors and windows, in case the inquisitive monkeys opt to venture beyond the facility’s boundaries.
### A Joyful Expedition
Staff members at Alpha Genesis have been monitoring the escapees closely, attempting to coax them back with food. Yet, the monkeys appear to be enjoying themselves too much to return just yet. Greg Westergaard, CEO of Alpha Genesis, mentioned that the monkeys have been “jumping back and forth, playing with each other” and even calling to those still inside the facility. Westergaard compared the scenario to a “playground situation,” with the primates fully enjoying their brief experience of freedom.
### History of Escapes
This is not the first instance of Alpha Genesis facing difficulties in containing its monkeys. The facility has a record of monkey escapes. Between 2014 and 2016, there were four incidents in which a total of 30 monkeys got free, one of which was never recovered. Consequently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture fined Alpha Genesis $12,600 in 2018 for violations related to these escapes.
Despite these past occurrences, the current situation seems to be managed well. The monkeys are remaining close to the facility, and the staff is working hard to coax them back inside. For the moment, the spirited primates are simply relishing their freedom, much to the delight of the local residents.
### No Threat to Public Health
It’s crucial to emphasize that the monkeys present no risk to human health. According to the Yemassee Police Department, the rhesus macaques are healthy, disease-free, and have had no involvement in any testing. While spotting monkeys playing near a research facility might be peculiar, there is no reason for panic.
### Final Thoughts
As the weekend draws near, the lighthearted behaviors of the escaped rhesus macaques remind us that sometimes, it’s essential to let go and have a bit of fun. Although the monkeys will eventually be returned to the Alpha Genesis facility, for now, they are living their best lives, indulging in the simple joys of freedom and play. And who can blame them?
In the meantime, residents of Yemassee can feel assured knowing that the monkeys present no threat to their health or safety. With the staff closely monitoring the situation and working to bring the monkeys back, it’s just a matter of time before the playful primates return to their home. Until then, they serve as a delightful reminder of the happiness that can result from a little unexpected freedom.
