Authorities in South Carolina warned residents to lock their doors and windows after 40 monkeys escaped from a research facility Wednesday night.

The primates escaped from the Alpha Genesis facility in Beaufort County, and traps were set and thermal imaging cameras were used to locate the escaped monkeys, the Yemassee Police Department said in a statement.

“Residents are strongly advised to keep doors and windows secure to prevent these animals from entering homes,” police said. in question. “If you see any of the stray animals, please call 911 immediately and avoid approaching them.”

According to its website, Alpha Genesis breeds monkeys and provides “non-human primate products and bioresearch services” worldwide. Company’s clinical trials reportedly included Research on progressive brain disorders.

Authorities have not identified the breed of the escaped primates, but the company’s website says its staff of veterinary technicians and animal experts work with cynomolg, rhesus and capuchin monkeys.

The Yemassee Police Department said multiple officers worked with Alpha Genesis personnel to recapture the primates.

Postal and Courier The newspaper reported last year that Alpha Genesis won a federal contract to oversee a colony of 3,500 rhesus monkeys on South Carolina’s Morgan Island, known as “Monkey Island.”

Newspaper reported The apes have escaped from Alpha Genesis before. Eight years ago, 19 primates escaped from the company’s facility but were recaptured about six hours later.

Last year, dozens of laboratory monkeys in Pennsylvania escaped after being hit by a truck carrying 100 animals. All primates later taken into account.