Primate Escape Prompts Massive Search in the Lowcountry
Officials Urge Residents to Stay Vigilant as Animal Control and Police Officers Work to Locate Animals
Charleston, South Carolina - Authorities are actively searching for 40 primates that escaped from a research facility in the Lowcountry on Tuesday after a power outage caused a malfunction in the facility's security system.
The escaped primates include marmosets, tamarins, and squirrel monkeys. While these animals are not considered dangerous to humans, residents are urged to exercise caution and report any sightings to the authorities.
Animal control officers, police officers, and wildlife experts are conducting a thorough search of the area surrounding the facility in an effort to locate the animals. Drones and helicopters are also being used to assist in the search.
Safety Precautions for Residents
- Residents are urged to stay away from any primates they may encounter and to call 911 immediately.
- Residents should keep their pets indoors and secure their property, as primates may be attracted to food or shelter.
- Parents should keep a watchful eye on their children and inform them about the escaped primates.
Facility Statement
The research facility has issued a statement expressing regret for the escape and assuring the public that they are working closely with authorities to ensure the animals are located and returned safely.
"We are deeply concerned about the escaped primates and are doing everything in our power to find them and return them to the facility," said a spokesperson for the research center.
Community Response
The community has responded to the news of the escaped primates with concern, but also a willingness to assist in the search effort.
"We're all hoping that the animals are found safe and sound," said one local resident. "We'll do whatever we can to help."
Additional Information
The search for the escaped primates is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.
In the meantime, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the animals to the authorities.
For more information on the escaped primates, visit the website of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.