A Bunch of Trouble: 43 Monkeys Still Missing in South Carolina
Remember that crazy story about monkeys escaping from a lab in South Carolina? Well, it’s still going on, and things aren't looking good. Forty-three of those little troublemakers are still on the loose!
It all started back in January 2023 when a truck carrying 100 cynomolgus monkeys crashed near a highway in Hardeeville, South Carolina. Let's be honest, we've all seen enough movies to know that a bunch of monkeys running loose is never a good sign. And it wasn’t.
Some of the monkeys were caught almost immediately, but the rest disappeared into the wild, which is way more exciting for them than sitting in a lab, right?
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and other wildlife experts have been working around the clock to capture the escaped primates, but it’s been a tough fight. The monkeys are pretty smart and resourceful, and they've blended in with the local wildlife.
Monkey Business: Why the Big Deal?
You might be wondering, "Why all the fuss? It's just a bunch of monkeys, right?" Wrong! These cynomolgus monkeys, though small, are capable of carrying diseases that could potentially be harmful to humans.
They're also very strong and can be aggressive if they feel threatened. This makes them a real hazard to anyone who encounters them.
Searching for the Missing Monkeys
So what's the plan?
The experts are using a combination of strategies to track down the missing monkeys. They’re using cameras and traps to try and lure them into a safe, secure location.
They're also working with local communities to spread the word about the dangers of interacting with these animals. The key message: "Do not approach them."
It's a tricky situation with no easy answers. But the authorities are doing everything they can to safely capture the monkeys and return them to their facility. Until then, keep your eyes peeled and stay away from any suspicious-looking monkeys!
We'll keep you updated on the situation as it unfolds.