Hamadryas baboon

Hamadryas baboons live in groups averaging around 50 individuals. The tribe is dominated by a few large adult males who constantly remain close to the females. The other males and juveniles keep a lookout around the group and are responsible for raising the alarm in case of danger.

Hamadryas baboons are found in Ethiopia, Eritrea and Somalia.

Hamadryas baboons engage in liberal sexual habits. Each member of the group is free to mate with any other, but only the dominant male has the privilege of insemination.

With a length of up to 1 m (not including the tail), this is a powerful and formidable animal, not only because of its aggressive nature but also due to the capacity for reason which it displays in its actions. Hamadryas baboons sleep in trees or on rocks and by daytime look for plants, insects and small mammals to eat.

• 
  Habitat

  Spends most of its time on the ground. Semi-desert, rocky land or savannah.
• Food

  Seeds, roots, bulbs, plants, insects, small animals (partridge, young antelopes, etc.)

Did you know ?

In ancient times, the hamadryas baboon was widespread in Egypt. It is associated with sun worshipping and personified the God known as Thoth. It was a sacred baboon for ancient Egyptians and is represented on many bas-reliefs and statues.