Runaway Research Monkeys Recaptured After South Carolina Lab Escape

The last of the 43 monkeys that escaped from a research facility in South Carolina have been safely recaptured, bringing an end to their unexpected adventure. Authorities confirmed that all the monkeys are back in custody, much to the relief of those who may have envisioned a “Planet of the Apes” scenario unfolding in their backyard.

The rhesus macaques, all young females weighing around 6-7 pounds, escaped in November from the Alpha Genesis facility in Beaufort County. Their breakout happened after an employee reportedly left an enclosure door open, giving them an easy exit into the nearby wooded areas.

Law enforcement and facility staff worked together to track down the monkeys, advising residents to keep their doors and windows secured until all the animals were accounted for. Officials used peanut butter and jelly sandwiches as bait to lure many of the monkeys back to the facility.

Greg Westergaard, CEO of Alpha Genesis, assured the public that the monkeys are in good health following their capture. The company conducts medical research and breeds primates for use in studies related to brain disorders and other health conditions.

Animal rights organizations, such as the Humane Society of the United States, have expressed concerns over the recaptured monkeys’ fate. They continue to call for an end to primate testing, advocating for the adoption of alternative research methods that do not involve animals.

Alpha Genesis has faced previous incidents involving escaped monkeys, with federal citations and fines issued between 2014 and 2016 for similar breaches. In one instance, 26 monkeys escaped, with all but one being recovered within two days.