Why are the baboons on the Point area?
ThalleonAdmin
4 minute read
05/04/2024
There have been several comments from various forums in the community as to why the baboons are currently so active in the Point area of Pringle Bay. Historical local knowledge from long term residents of this area have seen this pattern and often related to the change in the prevailing winds. When the winter rain bearing northwester blows the baboons appeared to favour Pringle Peak and the Point area.
I researched the PB troops movements using data from 2017 to 2020 to better understand the home range of this troop. I used both quantitative and qualitative data to do this and in this instance was able to show how the home range changed seasonally (figure 1).
Statistically I was able to identify several hotspot areas within the village, one of which is the Point area. One attraction being the pine trees, near the intersection of Hangklip, Bell Road North and Highlevel Roads, where the baboons are often seen harvesting pine nuts (photo 1). This has been an established food route for over 13 years.
The data showed a correlation to the seasons and the weather. Figure 2 shows how over 3 years the baboons visit the Point for the late autumn and winter months (May – July) when the prevailing wind was from the northwest.
This period coincidently corresponds to the yellow daisy bietou bushes (Chrysanthemoides monilifera) flowering and producing berries in the autumn and winter. Popular with both birds and bees it is a well-known as a major food source for baboons too (photo 3).
So no, the Point is not “under siege” and no-one is being “held hostage” in their own home, as the baboons will forage and move on. While in the vicinity of your home take precautions and use your baboon-proof measures to not allow them access to human food. If your home is not baboon proofed adequately then close your windows, doors and secure your bin until they have moved past. The seasons have changed so too have the feeding routes of the troop…
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ThalleonAdmin