3 baboon troops in Outeniquas

GEORGE NEWS - There are three baboon troops that CapeNature is aware of that live in the Outeniqua Mountains between Witfontein and Saasveld.

Their numbers range between 20 and 50 individuals per troop, according to Petro van Rijn, spokesperson for CapeNature.

In the light of complaints from residents in Denneoord that they have lately been plagued by an increase in baboons moving through the neighbourhood, Van Rijn responded to a few questions regarding the management and mitigation of conflict between baboons and residents living close to the forest.

Q: Is it true that the leopards in the Outeniqua Mountains are gone and would they have kept the numbers in check?

A: Baboons do occur in a leopard's diet; however, they do not prefer baboons as prey and baboon biomass seldom exceeds 5% of a leopard's diet. Baboons are very vigilant, highly mobile and have the ability to defend themselves during a leopard attack, making them more likely to escape. The presence of leopards therefore will not necessarily play a role in regulating baboon numbers.

Q: What factors contribute to baboons moving into urban areas? How can they be kept at bay?

A: The availability of easily obtainable food sources will contribute to baboons entering into the urban area and cause them to spend more time there as they will be able to obtain high rewards for minimal effort. These food sources can range from unsecured rubbish bags and bins, bird feeders and unfinished pet food to compost heaps, fruit trees, vegetable gardens, etc.

The following measures can be implemented to make your home less attractive to baboons:

Never feed baboons.
Do not leave food visible that can be seen through your windows.
Doors and windows should be closed when baboons are around and fitted with secure latches or bolts.
Windows should be fitted with burglar bars with gaps smaller than 8cm.
Waste bins should be secured and safeguarded with latches with padlocks or clips and stored in caged/inaccessible areas. Make sure bins are not over-filled and do not put rubbish bags outside bins.
Vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and compost heaps should be avoided or planted in a locked caged area.

Q: Should baboons be feared? Are they aggressive animals?

A: Humans are not considered prey for baboons. Humans will perceive baboons as aggressive if they display dominance by baring their teeth or snatching a food item from a human hand. Do not try to take back anything from the baboon.

Q: What do you do when a baboon manages to enter your house?

A: If you find a baboon in your house, stay calm and open doors and windows to ensure that there are exit routes. If the baboon does not move out, move to the opposite side of the escape route outside the house and make a noise.

Do not try and corner the baboon or try to pursue it inside the house as they will cause a mess. Keep your pets away from baboons, do not encourage your dogs to attack a baboon.

A walkabout among the residences on the NMU George campus.