There are indeed monkeys in Georgia, primarily Rhesus Macaques (Macaca mulatta). These sightings usually involve individual animals that have either escaped captivity or migrated from neighboring states.
The Georgia Monkey Population
Rhesus Macaques are a species native to South, Central, and Southeast Asia. These medium-sized primates typically exhibit brown or grayish fur, a distinctive pink face without fur, and a tail of moderate length. Adult males can weigh up to 17 pounds and stand around 21 inches tall, while females are generally smaller, reaching about 11.8 pounds and 18.5 inches in height.
Rhesus macaques are adaptable animals, known for being diurnal, active both in trees and on the ground, and capable swimmers. They are also highly social, living in groups that can range from 20 to 200 individuals, and possess an omnivorous diet, consuming fruits, seeds, leaves, insects, and even human food.
Reports of Rhesus Macaque sightings in Georgia have largely concentrated in the southwestern part of the state, particularly along the Flint River. Areas such as Dougherty, Mitchell, Baker, and Decatur counties have documented observations of these primates. While there isn’t an established, breeding population within Georgia itself, these sightings represent individual animals or small transient groups. The closest known self-sustaining population of Rhesus Macaques in the United States is located approximately 225 miles southeast of Albany, Georgia, in Silver Springs, Florida.
How They Arrived
The presence of Rhesus Macaques in the southeastern United States, including occasional appearances in Georgia, traces back to introductions made in Florida. In the 1930s, a small group of Rhesus Macaques was intentionally released onto an island in Silver Springs, Florida, by a tour boat operator. The aim was to enhance the tourist experience, creating a “Tarzan-themed” attraction. However, these monkeys proved to be adept swimmers and quickly escaped their initial confined area.
Following their escape, the macaques established a free-ranging and self-sustaining colony within the Silver Springs State Park area. Over decades, this population grew and expanded its range. Individual Rhesus Macaques from this Florida colony are believed to be the source of the monkeys that have been sighted migrating northward into Georgia.
Ecological Impact and Management
The presence of non-native Rhesus Macaques can introduce several ecological and public health concerns. Invasive species can compete with native wildlife for resources and potentially damage local vegetation or agricultural areas. A significant concern associated with Rhesus Macaques is their natural carriage of the Herpes B virus. This virus is typically harmless to macaques.
However, the Herpes B virus can be severely dangerous, even fatal, if transmitted to humans. Transmission to humans usually occurs through direct contact, such as bites or scratches, or exposure to the monkey’s bodily fluids. Untreated human infections with Herpes B virus can lead to severe neurological complications or death, with mortality rates as high as 70-80%. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GDNR) monitors and manages reports of these primates. Owning a monkey, including Rhesus Macaques, is illegal in Georgia, categorizing them as “inherently dangerous” animals under state law.
Public Interaction and Safety
If you encounter a Rhesus Macaque in Georgia, understanding how to respond is important for public safety. Individuals should never approach, feed, or attempt to interact with these monkeys. Rhesus Macaques are wild animals and can exhibit aggressive behaviors, including spitting or throwing fecal matter, especially when food is involved.
Maintaining a safe distance is crucial due to the potential for disease transmission, particularly the Herpes B virus. If a Rhesus Macaque is sighted, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GDNR) should be contacted immediately. The public can report sightings to the GDNR’s Game Management Office in Albany during weekday business hours or to the State Operations Center after hours and on weekends.