Authorities later confirmed a rhesus monkey had been spotted near Ferguson’s home that morning. It was tranquilized and safely captured by officers from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. “We don’t encourage residents to confront wild animals,” Sheriff Randy Johnson said. “But in this case, the mother did what she thought necessary to protect her family — and we understand that instinct.”
How the Monkeys Escaped
The monkeys had fled three days earlier when a truck carrying 21 rhesus macaques overturned en route from Tulane University’s National Primate Research Center in New Orleans to a facility in Georgia. Thirteen monkeys were recovered quickly, five died in the crash, and three remained unaccounted for — until the Ferguson encounter.
Tulane confirmed all animals were medically screened and carried no infectious diseases. “We’re working closely with authorities to ensure all remaining monkeys are safe and accounted for,” a university spokesperson said.
Rhesus Monkeys: Beautiful but Unpredictable
Experts warn that while rhesus macaques are intelligent and social, stressful situations can make them unpredictable. “They’re not naturally violent toward humans,” said Dr. Amanda Keene, a zoologist at Mississippi State University. “But fear, trauma, or separation can trigger defensive behavior.”
Ferguson didn’t have time to weigh the nuances. “I saw something that didn’t belong in my yard and could hurt my children,” she said. “That’s all I needed to know.”
Community Reacts
Ferguson’s quick thinking quickly went viral in local social media groups. Some hailed her as a hero, while others debated her use of a firearm. She brushed it off: “Everybody has an opinion. But when it’s your yard, your kids, and a monkey staring you down, you make the call you can live with.”
Since the crash, locals have shared sightings of the escaped animals — blurry figures in trees or near barns. Authorities have warned residents not to approach the monkeys, emphasizing that even small animals can be strong and fast.
Schools temporarily suspended outdoor recess, and parents kept children indoors. “It’s scary,” Ferguson admitted. “We’ve had snakes and wild hogs before, but monkeys? Never.”
Aftermath and Safety Lessons
By Sunday afternoon, officials confirmed all 21 monkeys were accounted for. Tulane assured residents that no biohazard risk remained. Wildlife agencies are reviewing transportation protocols for research animals, highlighting the importance of safety and emergency preparedness.
Ferguson says her children are still a little shaken. “My youngest keeps asking if more monkeys are coming,” she said. “I told him no — but I still double-check the window every night.”
“It was something you only see in movies,” Ferguson reflected. “Except this time, it was real life — and it happened right here in our backyard.”
This unusual incident has sparked conversations about wildlife transport safety, rural emergency readiness, and the unpredictable ways danger can reach even the quietest communities. For one Mississippi mom, it’s a story she’ll tell for the rest of her life — the day she stood between her children and a wild monkey and didn’t think twice.
Have you ever faced a wild animal unexpectedly? Share your story and let us know how you reacted!