Monkeys on the Loose in St. Louis
Wednesday, 2026/01/14241 words4 minutes479 reads
A perplexing situation has unfolded in St. Louis, Missouri, as multiple vervet monkeys continue to elude capture after being spotted roaming the city streets since Thursday. The presence of these non-native primates has sparked confusion and concern among local residents and animal control officials alike.
The St. Louis health department, responsible for animal control in the city, has confirmed that the animals are vervet monkeys - small, intelligent primates indigenous to Africa, characterized by their pale fur and distinctive black faces. While these monkeys are known for their social nature, officials warn that they could exhibit unpredictable or aggressive behavior when under stress, posing a potential threat to public safety.
Despite concerted search efforts spanning several days, the exact number of monkeys at large remains uncertain, though officials believe there are multiple individuals. The origin of these exotic animals is equally mysterious, as the ownership of such primates is strictly prohibited within city limits. This has left authorities puzzled about their source and how they came to be loose in an urban environment.
Residents, particularly in the O'Fallon Park neighborhood where most sightings have occurred, have been strongly advised to maintain a safe distance from the monkeys and refrain from any attempts at capture. Instead, the public is urged to report any sightings to the health department promptly. Once apprehended, the monkeys will be transferred to a specialized facility equipped to care for exotic animals, ensuring their welfare and public safety.
