Dr Paula Pebsworth, a scientific advisor for the Baboon Matters Trust, is visiting South Africa to do critical research to work on the conflict between baboons and humans.
Midrand, Johannesburg – Humans and baboons are often in conflict over shared resources. Baboon Matters Trust is working hard to resolve conflict using a non-lethal strategy.
Organisations such as Baboon Matters Trust are trying to change this, by helping to create a society that cares about the baboon and conserving the animals’ place in our natural heritage. Dr Paula Pebsworth, scientific advisor for the Baboon Matters Trust and research associate at The University of Texas, is currently in South Africa to conduct field research around how to minimise the current lethal management of baboons.
According to Baboon Matters Trust, baboons throughout South Africa are in crisis which is evident because of the increasing numbers that require rescue, rehabilitation and sanctuary. They deal with a significant amount of baboon orphans due to hunting or being shot on farms.
“Education is a core focus of Baboon Matters. We believe that changing perceptions and the way we manage human activity in baboon-affected areas are the only ways to ensure a sustainable future for South Africa’s baboon population and to create a society that values our wild neighbours and their rightful place in our natural heritage.”
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) South Africa is aiding Dr Paula Pebsworth, by providing the use of a Fiat Fullback Double bakkie to help facilitate her most recent research in the country.
“The budget for conducting our field work is very tight and we need as much of our funding to go towards our analysis procedures as possible, so the loan of this vehicle enables us to do just that,” says Dr Pebsworth.
“Moreover, we required a capable, reliable and tough vehicle that was capable of going out to remote areas within Sabie, Mpumalanga and deal with the rough terrain our research subjects favour, and the Fiat Fullback bakkie is more than equal to that task,” she adds.
Lesley Sutton, PR Manager at FCA South Africa, adds: “We wish Dr Pebsworth all the best with her mission to end the conflict between humans and baboons.”
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