Baboons are one of the most widespread and successful among the primate genera, largely due to their adaptability, agility and intelligence. Consequently they are adept at exploiting anthropogenic food sources which results in unrivalled levels of contact with humans. The Cape chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) populations in the Cape Peninsula are no exception.
This baboon population has been exposed to cumulative levels of human-baboon conflict as human populations grow and urban sprawl further transforms and fragments suitable baboon habitat. This conflict is exacerbated by human settlement’s preference for low lying areas where the majority of fertile and nutritious foraging for baboons occurs. While group formation is a dynamic process, there are approximately 12 troops requiring management in the Peninsula. These troops border urban development and thus require active monitoring to prevent negative interactions between the baboons and Cape Town’s residents and visitors.
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