43 Monkeys Still Loose In South Carolina

Chartdata

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 08, 2024

40 visitor like this post

Share

43 Monkeys Still Running Wild in South Carolina: A Tale of Escape and Adaptation

You've probably heard the saying, "monkey business," right? Well, in South Carolina, it's not just a saying - it's a reality! A group of 43 monkeys, originally part of a research colony, have been living wild in the state for over 30 years. These caped monkeys escaped from their enclosure in 1979 and have since thrived in the wild, making their home in the forests of the Berkeley County area.

A Long, Strange Trip

The story of these escaped monkeys is a fascinating one. They were part of a colony used for medical research, but when Hurricane Hugo hit in 1989, their enclosure was damaged, allowing some to escape. The colony thrived, growing in numbers and establishing themselves in the local ecosystem.

But here's the thing - they haven't exactly been welcomed with open arms. Their presence has become a bit of a headache for locals, with reports of them raiding gardens, disrupting traffic, and even getting into fights with other primates.

The Monkey Business Continues

Despite attempts to capture and relocate them, these monkeys remain elusive, adapting to life in the wild with impressive resilience. They've learned to forage for food, avoid human contact, and even established a complex social hierarchy.

While some folks are concerned about the potential for disease transmission or ecological disruption, others are fascinated by these creatures' tenacity and their ability to thrive in such a strange environment.

Living on the Edge

So, what's the future hold for these monkeys? It's hard to say. They've managed to survive for decades, adapting to a changing world. But their future is uncertain.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) continues to monitor the situation and try to find solutions. But for now, these wild monkeys remain a unique piece of South Carolina's history and a testament to the adaptability of nature.

Just remember, if you ever find yourself in South Carolina, keep your eyes peeled for some monkey business!