Several monkeys are confirmed to be loose in St. Louis, Missouri, and city officials say they still do not know where the animals came from or who owns them.
The St. Louis Department of Health and Animal Care and Control confirmed on January 9 that multiple monkeys were spotted roaming a north St. Louis neighborhood near O’Fallon Park. Initial reports suggested at least four animals were seen by residents on Red Bud Avenue, though officials have stressed that the exact number of primates remains unclear.
Health officials said this is the first known incident involving monkeys at large within the city. Owning exotic animals is prohibited under St. Louis ordinances, and authorities have not identified any licensed facility or legal owner connected to the animals.
Number of loose primates is unknown
With assistance from the Saint Louis Zoo, the monkeys were identified as vervet monkeys, also known as green monkeys. The species is native to sub-Saharan Africa and is not native to Missouri.
Officials emphasized that the zoo was not involved in housing or transporting the animals and only assisted with identification.
Residents in the area described shock and concern after learning the animals were loose. Several neighbors said they were worried about potential attacks on pets or people, prompting some to keep animals indoors while the search continues.
City officials warned residents not to approach the monkeys if spotted, describing them as intelligent but unpredictable. The Department of Health said trained animal experts will handle the capture once the animals’ locations are confirmed.
At this stage, authorities say there is no evidence linking the monkeys to a zoo, research facility, or permitted exhibitor. Officials are working with state and federal partners to determine the animals’ origin once they are safely recovered, including reviewing potential exotic animal ownership records.
As of the latest update, no arrests or citations have been announced, and none of the monkeys have been publicly confirmed as captured. Animal Care and Control continues to ask anyone who sees the monkeys to report sightings immediately by calling 314-657-1500.
