Watch: Elusive migrating baboon finally caught
Residents have been avidly following the baboon's movements via social media.
The elusive male baboon, dubbed Mickey, that has been roaming through various suburbs in Roodepoort for the past three months, was safely trapped this morning, June 27.
According to Community Led Animal Welfare (Claw) owner Cora Bailey, the young male baboon, which was initially spotted as far back as March in Breaunanda, Kloofendal, Helderkruin, Constantia Kloof, Florida Park and Florida Hills, was successfully caught at a residential property in Northcliff.
He also spent a few days at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden.
Also read: Roodepoort goes bananas over baboon
“He has proven to be very elusive,” says Cora, who adds that numerous traps have been set for him on his journey, but he managed to evade capture every time.
“He even went into a trap once, a few weeks ago, but did not set it off. A resident who saw him got a fright and made a noise, resulting in the baboon fleeing.”
Young male baboons and vervet monkeys are shunned from their troops when they reach sexual maturity, and they frequently make their way through the area, generally along the Roodekrans Ridge, in search of a troop of their own.
@caxton.jhbwest Mickey the baboon was safely caught after an epic three month journey through Roodepoort. #Baboon #Roodepoort #Caxton #animals #fyp
Cora says the baboon will undergo a health check by a veterinarian before being released in an area where it will be safe and happy.
“It is important for people to note that migrating out of their original troops is their natural behaviour. These animals generally don’t pose a danger to people, but like any wild animal, they can become dangerous if they feel threatened or cornered.
“We’re just happy he has been caught safely.”
