In Orange City, Florida, local authorities have issued an urgent advisory following several reports of monkeys seen roaming freely within the town.
The Orange City Police Department has urged residents to remain vigilant after multiple accounts of primate sightings surfaced across the community. Although the exact number of monkeys on the loose is not confirmed, it is clear that the situation requires cautious handling.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is actively involved in responding to these sightings. The primary aim is to locate and safely capture the monkeys, whose origins remain a mystery.
The police have emphasized the importance of not feeding or approaching these primates. Such actions could potentially lead to aggressive behavior, posing a risk to both humans and animals.
Tour boat operator Colin Innes, who is part of St. Johns River Eco Tours, unexpectedly encountered one of these monkeys, thought to be a rhesus macaque, swinging through the trees near the St. Johns River. “It caught me completely off guard, not something you see in Orange City every day,” Innes remarked, conveying his astonishment at the sight.
Residents are encouraged to report any encounters or sightings of the monkeys to the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.
The unexpected appearance of monkeys in Orange City has become a pressing issue for both residents and wildlife authorities. By remaining cautious and reporting sightings, the community can assist in addressing the situation safely and effectively.
Source: Fox13news
