An ape-like predator is on the loose in Texas, there have been multiple sightings of a mysterious creature prowling the streets of Santa Fe.

It has been described as a monkey or a chimpanzee.

One witness has claimed to have seen the unidentified humanoid attempt to snatch a cat.

The situation developed on Monday morning.

Local resident Patricia de la Mora called the police about a primate causing chaos in the South West of the city.

Initially she had been woken up by thunder and lightning only to hear ”strange noises”, after opening the curtains to investigate she became ”paralysed with fear” at the scene outside her house.

She later told US news outlet KVUE, “I look out the window and I see it was in there. It was a monkey, a big one”.

Unable to get her phone, she stood shocked “He tried to find something,” she said. “He looked over there, then he looked over there, and I closed the curtain.

“I didn’t want him to see me.”

The police did arrive soon after but they were unable to find the ape-like perpetrator.

This was not the end of the strange monkey business in Sante Fe.

The next day the police received a similar report of a woman who spend 20 minutes hiding in her car.

KHOU-TV, a local news station quoted the woman from Facebook- “Just had a monkey try to attack me, while checking my mail.

“I’ve spent the last 20 minutes in my car.”

The police quickly arrived, searched and were again unable to to apprehend the mysterious creature.

Local residents took to social media to report more sightings and incidents, one report allegedly had the unidentified beast attempt to kidnap a cat.

Press and Tv reporters have flocked to the area in an attempt to gain further insight into the strange goings-on.

Fox reporter Natalie Hee told viewers, “Law enforcement actually flew drones around the area, but we’re told no monkey was spotted”.

Local animal control, Bayou Animal services have said “We have two reports that seem legitimate.

“However, no visual proof from any authorities.

“No pictures. No videos.”

They have reassured the public through Facebook of various measures one can take should they meet the unidentified animal.

This is what you need to know.

1. Do not approach, chase or try and catch a primate if you have sighted said loose monkey.

2. Take a picture and call animal control ASAP.

The picture is to verify what type of monkey this is.

Knowing the type will keep this monkey safe if it needs to be tranquilized.

3. Do not go searching for the monkey.

Extra people looking for this animal is going to cause a risk of someone getting hurt.

4. A Team that is certified in dealing with primates is on the ground now helping us locate the animal.

Do not interfere.

Do not attempt to help.

They are professionals and know what they are doing.

5. Please do not call animal control or the police station with false statements you yourself are unable to verify.

This is not helpful to the authorities or to the animal.