Several monkeys have escaped in St. Louis, and AI-created images are making the search for them more challenging.
City Department of Health spokesperson Willie Springer stated that Vervet monkeys were first observed on Thursday near a park in the northern section of the city, triggering a series of rumors. It is unclear who owns the monkeys, how they got free, or exactly how many there are.
Some people have claimed to have captured the monkeys, even posting fake photos online to back up their statements. But as of Monday, the monkeys were still at large, Springer said.
“There’s been a lot of talk about AI and distinguishing what’s real from what’s not,” Springer commented. “People are just having a laugh— I don’t think anyone has bad intentions.”
Springer noted that the highest number of monkeys reported by witnesses is four. Since owning these animals is not permitted in the city, Springer doubts anyone will come forward to claim them.
At present, animal control teams are working alongside primate experts from the St. Louis Zoo to locate the monkeys.
Vervet monkeys are native to sub-Saharan Africa, where they are widely distributed. They weigh between 7 and 17 pounds (3.18 to 7.71 kilograms) and are sometimes called green monkeys because of the slight green tint in their fur.
Residents have been advised to stay away from the monkeys and call for assistance instead. A news release indicated that the monkeys are intelligent and social, but may act unpredictably or aggressively when under stress.