Baboon (Papio)

Overview
Baboons are large, ground-dwelling Old World monkeys found across Africa and parts of Arabia. There are five recognized species: Olive, Guinea, Chacma, Yellow, and Hamadryas. The Hamadryas Baboon is unique for its cliff-dwelling habits and bright red face, while the others are typically called Savanna Baboons.

Appearance
Baboons have strong builds, dog-like muzzles, cheek pouches for food, and expressive faces. Males are larger than females and have sharp canine teeth for defence. Fur colour varies by species, from olive and yellow to brown and silver, with hairless patches on their rumps and long, kinked tails.

Habitat & Range
Baboons inhabit diverse environments like savannas, scrublands, deserts, and forests—anywhere with a water source. The Olive Baboon is the most widespread, while others like the Guinea and Chacma have more localized ranges.

Social behaviour
Highly social and intelligent, baboons live in large troops that can number in the hundreds. They form close bonds through grooming and communal activities. Males protect the group, especially from predators, while females and young often retreat to trees. Hamadryas Baboons live in smaller harems led by a single male.

Conservation
Though adaptable, baboons face threats from habitat loss. Their populations are declining in some regions despite their widespread distribution.