In the Western Cape, these baboons are typically found in mountainous areas and protected natural spaces such as Table Mountain National Park, with key ranges including Tokai, Constantia, Cape Point, Scarborough, Smitswinkel Bay, and Da Gama Park.
According to task team head Gregg Oelofse, both baboons and residents are struggling under current conditions. The relocation aims to "reset the situation" and support a more sustainable coexistence, Oelofse told EWN.
First Gordy the seal a few weeks back, now this! A male baboon is trooping around the Southern Suburbs of Newlands, Claremont and Kenilworth.
On Friday morning, the baboon was seen far from its regular haunt, with neighbourhood sightings indicating it was last seen heading towards Palmyra Road in Claremont. If you encounter the baboon, remain calm and encourage others to do the same.
Baboons are not aggressive or predatory and they tend to avoid conflict unless provoked, the Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation authority has advised.
"This baboon is not looking to cause any trouble, he is simply moving by instinct to another baboon troop and is hampered by urban development. When male baboons reach adulthood, they often leave their family to join a different troop. He has moved from the Tokai/Constantia area. Cape Baboon Partnership and Cape of Good Hope SPCA are on the scene and will relocate him at the soonest opportunity."
Cape of Good Hope SPCA Communications Manager Belinda Abraham confirmed the animal rescue operation underway stating, "This young male is far from home, confused and at serious risk. Busy roads, fences, dogs, and people can quickly turn this situation tragic—for him and others. Please avoid the area if you can. The more space and calm we create, the better chance we have of helping him without harm."
"Baboons are protected under South Africa’s Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974. It is illegal to injure, capture, or harass a wild baboon.
If you see anyone interfering or putting him at risk, report it to the SPCA on 0217004158/9," Abrahams said.
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If You Spot a Baboon:
- Keep a respectful distance of at least 20 metres.
- Do not approach it or try to take close-up photos.
- Avoid forming crowds - this can stress or corner the animal.
- Do not block roads or interfere with the work of authorities onsite.
On the Road:
- If you see the baboon near a road, slow down and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Be mindful not to box the animal in or cause panic by following closely.
At Home:
- Keep dogs indoors while the baboon is in the area.
- Leave doors and windows open only if secured with gates or bars.
- Store bins inside a garage or enclosed area — baboons are opportunistic feeders.
To report sightings or for assistance:
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Baboon Hotline: 071 588 6540
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SPCA Wildlife Department:
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Office hours: 021 700 4104
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After hours: 083 326 1604
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Ongoing habitat encroachment and relocation required
Certain Cape Town suburbs have had ongoing issues with Chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) troop movements, and a city task team is working to relocate baboons away from urban environments, where they’ve become reliant on unnatural food sources. This dependence poses long-term risks to both the baboons' health and community safety. The goal is to prevent new troop splintering and to maintain a healthy, wild population.
A key part of the plan includes fast-tracking an urban wildlife bylaw to address two major threats: physical harm to baboons and the intentional feeding of baboons by residents, which undermines conservation efforts.
Let’s hope this encounter remains peaceful - for the baboon’s sake and ours.