With the close encounter of the baboon kind that is currently happening in the Northcliff area, Dirk Engelbrecht, of Wild Serve, shed light on the natural behaviour of baboons, emphasising that their dispersal patterns have been occurring for at least two million years. These animals are endemic to specific areas, and their troops have historically existed in more rural regions.

Read more: Gunshots fired at loose baboon in Northcliff

He urged the community to be understanding and patient, stating: “It is not just a major sacrifice; it is a major compromise.” Engelbrecht, who has been working in this field for nearly 20 years, highlighted that these animals have a clear objective: To reach their destination. “They do not have any interest in anything else. They have no nefarious intent,” he explained. “The only opportunism they exhibit is when they encounter food.”
To minimise conflicts, Engelbrecht advises residents to avoid distracting the baboons by hiding food and emptying bird feeders. “They will find things to eat. They are still wild animals,” he noted.
He also addressed common misconceptions about baboons, stating that they are not a threat. “People often give half the version, including professionals,” he said. Engelbrecht recommends that when baboons are in the area, residents should go inside, close their doors, and keep children and pets closed away.
Bhaai Cassim, secretary for the Johannesburg Sub-District Community Police Board, stated that the baboon that has been roaming in Northcliff was last sighted on Lily Avenue at 13:45 (June 22), sitting in a tree. Resident are reminded not to approach, feed, or antagonise the baboon in any way,

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