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True baboons are large-sized monkeys of the family Cercopithecidae. Baboons are found in the wild throughout Africa and Arabia.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Baboons are most easily recognized by their large heads and cheek pouches. The elongated jaw of the baboon allows for this animal to store and carry food in its cheeks in much the same manner as the chipmunk. The eyes of the baboon are dark and close together, set back high on the upper portion of the baboon's head. The muzzle is hairless and bears nostrils at its tip. The muzzle of the baboon is commonly referred to in appearance to that of a dog.
Baboons have large, powerful limbs and thick legs, capable of carrying them to great speeds. The buttock area is hairless and often brightly colored. The tail of the baboon is short and held in an arched position. Fur is coarse and mostly short, though many adult males have capes of long hair which hang over the shoulder area. Depending on the species of baboon, coat color ranges from blonde to deep brown.
Male baboons are generally twice the size of their female counterparts, weighing between 70-90 pounds, and measuring some 20-50 inchers in length, excluding their 15-35 inch tail.
HABITS AND LIFESTYLE
Baboons are social animals, traveling in large groups known as troops. Troops are comprised of 20-100 individuals who eat, sleep and move in the same unit. Each troop is led and protected by one or more dominant male, who scouts the path and fights fiercly to ensure the safety of his followers.
Baboons are well adapted to life on the ground or in the air. They move within their troops over open fields, rocky terrain or heavily wooded areas.
Baboons are loud, vocal monkeys who use a variety of calls to communicate with each other. A call of warning is often sounded with a shrill bark, resembling that of a small dog. Individuals monkeys also express themselves through body posture and tail signaling.
REPRODUCTION
After a six month gestation period, the female produces a single offspring each year, which spends the first few months of life clinging to the underside of the mother's body.
EATING HABITS
Baboons exist on a diet of worms, insects, reptiles, crabs, small mammals, fruits, vegetation, and eggs. Baboons scour for food, often collecting in their cheeks, and return to the troop to share the reward.
TODAY
Baboons exist in much the same manner as they always have. Due to the damage a troop of baboons can inflict upon a field of crops, many farmers in Africa have begun hunting the baboon or setting traps to catch them.
The baboon is a highly intelligent animal which has been thoroughly researched. Researchers, zoos and other baboon enthusiasts have found that baboons are capable of learning a series of commands, communication skills, and are easily trainable.
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