A Pet Primate Remains on the Loose in South Carolina
In an unusual event that has captured the attention of locals, a pet primate is currently on the loose in South Carolina, leading to a significant search effort to find the missing animal. The incident has prompted police to issue warnings for residents to keep their pets inside and refrain from approaching the creature.
The Search Continues
The escaped Macaque named Bradley was reported to have disappeared from his habitat last week. Located in the Walterboro area of Colleton County, 48 miles west of Charleston, South Carolina, the search for the 15-year-old pet primate has become a top priority for both animal services and countless residents who have been following the story in the days following Bradley’s escape.
Despite receiving numerous tips, officials have yet to locate Bradley, citing crowds and social media attention as hindrances to the ongoing search. In an effort to expedite the process, professional services have been enlisted to assist with recapturing Bradley and returning him to his owner.
Sightings Abound
Residents have taken to social media and local news outlets to share photos and stories of Bradley’s adventures. In one instance, a man captured footage of Bradley nonchalantly traversing the top of a shed. In another, a woman looking out of her window claimed she saw him roaming around her yard.
However enticing it might be to capture their own images of Bradley, locals have been advised not to approach the primate. Officials stressed the fact that Bradley may be under stress and could pose potential risks to safety, emphasizing the importance of responding correctly to primate sightings.
Focus on Safety
Concerns for safety have also extended to local pets. On one occasion, a report was made regarding Bradley attempting to attack a resident’s dog in their yard. As a result, locals have been firmly advised to keep their pets indoors until Bradley has been successfully returned to his owner and his habitat.
Wildlife Ownership Laws
Ownership of wildlife is a complex and heavily regulated area of law. Currently, South Carolina law dictates that purchasing or keeping great apes – such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans – is illegal. However, the act of purchasing or owning other wild creatures, including smaller primates like macaques and baboons, appears to fall outside of this jurisdiction, forming a grey area within the legislation.
In Closing
The ongoing search for Bradley serves as a reminder of the risks and responsibilities involved in owning exotic pets. While the situation has undoubtedly stirred excitement and intrigue among locals, residents are encouraged to prioritize their safety and the well-being of the primate. The emphasis remains on locating Bradley and returning him to safety as swiftly as possible.
