South Carolina: At Least 25 of the 43 Escaped Monkeys are Recaptured

25 monkeys captured

About 43 rhesus macaques were on the loose after their enclosure was vandalized in South Carolina. Thankfully, authorities have captured at least 25 of the monkeys as of Tuesday afternoon, with the remaining 18 monkeys still unaccounted for and potentially dangerous. Officials are urging residents to be cautious and to report any monkey sightings to the proper authorities. The monkeys are native to Asia and can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans.

Humane efforts to find the monkeys

The remaining monkeys are still at large, and authorities are using humane efforts to locate and capture them. They are using traps and tranquilizer darts to avoid harming the animals. Once captured, the monkeys will be taken to a local animal shelter for evaluation and care before being returned to their enclosure.

Seeking public assistance

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is asking for the public's help in locating the remaining monkeys, asking residents to report any sightings to the agency's 24-hour hotline at 1-800-922-5431. The SCDNR also advises the public not to approach or attempt to capture the monkeys themselves, as they may be frightened and could become aggressive.

Monkey's impact on the community

While no injuries have been reported to date, authorities still treat the situation with urgency, as the monkeys could pose a risk to the community. They can damage property, spread diseases, or even attack people if they feel threatened. Residents are advised to take precautions such as keeping their doors and windows locked and avoiding leaving food or other items outside that could attract the animals.

Continued efforts

The SCDNR is committed to capturing the remaining monkeys and ensuring the safety of the community. They will continue their search efforts until all the animals have been accounted for. The agency asks for patience and cooperation from the public as they work to resolve the situation.

Conclusion

As the search for the remaining 18 escaped monkeys continues, the SCDNR encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings. The agency assures the public that they are taking all necessary measures to capture the animals safely and return them to their enclosure. The cooperation of the community is crucial in ensuring a successful outcome.