The search for a group of escaped monkeys in St. Louis has taken a bizarre turn into the digital age, as authorities report that AI-generated images are complicating efforts to track the animals. The unusual situation began when Vervet monkeys were first spotted last Thursday near a park in the city's northern sector.
Rumours and Fake Photos Cloud the Search
Willie Springer, a spokesperson for the St. Louis Department of Health, confirmed the ongoing search, noting it has sparked "rumor after rumor." He expressed frustration with the modern complication of artificial intelligence, stating, "It’s been a lot in regard to AI and what’s genuine and what’s not." Residents have posted fabricated pictures online, falsely claiming to have captured the primates. Springer believes most people are not acting maliciously, but simply "having fun."
Key facts about the escape remain a mystery. Officials do not know who owns the monkeys, how they got loose, or the precise number on the run. The largest number reported by witnesses is four. Ownership of such animals is prohibited within the city, making it unlikely anyone will step forward to claim them.
Collaboration with Primate Experts
For now, the city's animal control services are working in tandem with primate experts from the St. Louis Zoo to safely locate and capture the monkeys. Residents have been strongly advised to stay away from the animals and call for professional help if they see them.
The monkeys in question are Vervets, a species native to sub-Saharan Africa. They are intelligent, social animals, but can become unpredictable or aggressive if stressed. They typically weigh between 7 and 17 pounds (3.18 to 7.71 kilograms) and are sometimes called "green monkeys" due to the olive tint in their fur.
Public Safety is the Priority
As of Monday, the monkeys remained at large. The primary concern for city officials and animal experts is public safety. The combination of wild animals in an urban setting and the confusion sown by digital misinformation creates a uniquely challenging scenario. The public is reminded that these are wild animals and should not be approached.
