Mystery Unfolds as Monkeys Roam Free in Missouri City
In an unexpected twist, a number of monkeys have been spotted wandering freely in a neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri. Local authorities are left scratching their heads, as they are unsure of the monkeys' origin or who might be their rightful owner.
Monkeys Spotted in North St. Louis Neighborhood
The city's health and animal control department confirmed that numerous eyewitnesses noticed the monkeys in a northern neighborhood close to O’Fallon Park. While it was initially reported that the residents of Red Bud Avenue had spotted around four monkeys, city officials have emphasized that the exact count of these free-roaming primates is yet to be determined.
This incident marks the first time the city has dealt with monkeys on the loose in its jurisdiction. As per city rules, owning exotic creatures such as these is strictly forbidden. So far, no one with a legitimate license or ownership rights to these animals has been tracked down.
Loose Monkeys Identified
With some help from local animal experts, it was discovered that these monkeys are of the vervet species, also known as green monkeys. These monkeys are native to sub-Saharan Africa and certainly not indigenous to Missouri. The animal experts made it clear that they had no role in housing or transporting these monkeys and were only involved in identifying their species.
Local Response to the Monkey Situation
Residents in the neighborhood expressed their surprise and worry upon learning about the wandering monkeys. Many voiced their concerns about potential attacks on their pets or even people, leading some to keep their pets indoors until the situation is resolved.
The city's health department has urged residents to refrain from trying to approach or interact with the monkeys, warning that they are intelligent but can also be unpredictable. The department reassured the public that trained animal control experts will take care of capturing the monkeys once their exact locations are known.
Investigation Ongoing
Currently, there is no evidence suggesting that the monkeys escaped from a zoo or a research institution, or belonged to a licensed exhibitor. Officials are now collaborating with state and federal partners to trace the origin of these monkeys once they are safely captured, which includes scrutinizing potential records of exotic animal ownership.
As the latest update, no citations or arrests have been made in relation to the monkeys' mysterious appearances. Furthermore, there is still no official confirmation of any of the monkeys being captured. The city's animal control department continues to request anyone who spots these monkeys to report the sightings immediately by dialing 314-657-1500.