The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa warns residents of a baboon on the run around the Lakeview, Retreat area in Cape Town.
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The organisation reminds residents that this is a wild animal and that it should not be approached or fed. Pets should also be kept inside.
Another baboon was sighted around the Diep River area on 3 December.
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The Animal Welfare Society also released the following guidelines from the NCC Environmental Services on how to responsibly photograph baboons:
- Do not disturb the animals or distract them from their natural behaviour.
- Do not feed them to lure them for the ‘perfect shot’. Feeding baboons is illegal and you can be fined up to R40 000 and/or receive one year’s imprisonment.
- Maintain a minimum distance of 15 metres from baboons at all times, as they may respond aggressively in defence of the troop.
- Remain in your vehicle if you encounter baboons on the side of the road. This will reduce the risk of an accident and minimise the disturbance to the troop.
- Avoid selfies, as this requires you to get close. Use social media responsibly to showcase the baboons from a safe distance instead.
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Also read:
SPCA investigates after Cape Town resident shoots juvenile baboon
Picture: Frans van Heerden / Pexels