Search continues for loose primate in South Carolina town

The search for a wayward primate in South Carolina has captured the attention of residents and authorities alike. The Colleton County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning on Friday that a primate is on the loose in the Walterboro area, sparking a two-day search for the elusive animal.

While the specific type of primate has not been disclosed, the sheriff’s office referred to it as a “primate/ape” in a social media post. The animal’s owner is reportedly trying to capture it with the help of authorities.

A video captured by a viewer shows the primate perched on the roof of a shed, while a photo taken by a resident shows it standing in the grass with a red face resembling baboons or macaques. Residents have been advised not to approach the primate, as it may be stressed, and to report any sightings to the authorities.

The search was prompted by a report of the primate allegedly attempting to attack a resident’s dog in a yard. It remains unclear how the animal escaped or ended up in Walterboro, a city with a population of over 5,000 people.

In South Carolina, it is illegal to purchase or possess great apes such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans. However, smaller primates like monkeys and baboons fall outside the state’s laws on wildlife possession, making it legal to keep them as pets.

As the search continues, residents are urged to keep an eye on their pets and report any sightings of the primate to the authorities. The mystery of the wayward primate in South Carolina continues to unfold, captivating the community and sparking discussions about wildlife laws and pet ownership.