Gauteng has had several roaming baboons cause public concern, with the latest being a tragic tale of loss and unbearable cruelty; a second baboon named Jasiri was spotted, caught by the Owl Rescue Centre and relocated to the mountains where it is safe and will start a new life. This is how to help:
South Africa (14 February 2025) – After the devastating news of Raygun the baboon’s murder at the hands of students in Delmas, the public was naturally distressed when a second baboon was spotted making its migration through urban spaces and towards a safer, natural environment.
Many initially confused the reports of the two baboons. This is where it is important to clarify that there was, in fact, a second baboon also making its migration and that the Owl Rescue Centre worked closely with the public to monitor this baboon to make sure it made it past the populated areas.
However, to avoid any repeats of the recent past, the Owl Rescue Team decided it was best to capture the baboon and drive through the populated urban areas, releasing it further out and away from danger.
Darting a baboon is simple; it’s the fact that they climb and try to get out of reach that is dangerous. Thankfully, the young male baboon, now named Jasiri, was safely captured and released into the mountains beyond Northern Gauteng.
How can the public help in keeping roaming baboons safe?
Once male baboons reach maturity, they are pushed out of their troop and have to find a new one. This means they venture out for the first time and are often faced with sprawling urban landscapes. Dangers such as meeting dogs, crossing busy roads and as we so heartbreakingly learned recently, encountering violent communities.
So, how does one keep a baboon safe? Firstly, call for help immediately and pin the last seen location of the baboon. Keep track of the direction the animal went and send all this to a local welfare organisation. The Owl Rescue Centre has a WhatsApp line for emergencies that is carefully monitored.
Never approach the animal and remain calm so that it doesn’t panic and run off. Bring your animals indoors and keep your home closed until the animal has passed through the area.
These baboons are coming through urban areas yearly now, so it’s vital to keep communities where these animals are spotted informed on what to do.
The Owl Rescue Centre may have started out as a rescue for our feathered friends, but the need to serve the greater wildlife population has spurred endless support. Headed by Brendan and Danelle Murray and aided by their incredible team and K9 heroes, they help wherever they can.
If you would like to support the work they do, you can find all the donation options here.
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