What sounds and vocalisations do baboons make?

Baboons constantly communicate with each other to maintain contact as they forage, to signal mood, or to alarm for danger. 

Lip smacking: Baboons rapidly smack their lips together as a friendly welcome or sign of reassurance. It is their way of smiling and showing affiliation.

Rhythmic grunts: Soft, low rhythmic grunts are a friendly greeting when one baboon approaches another. 

Grunting: Adult males make a deep and soft “huh huh huh” sound as a signal of dominance. This is often followed by a two-phase bark.

Two-phase bark: A loud “WAAA-hu” call, repeated every few seconds. It’s an aggressive warning call to other males or approaching predators.

Screeching:  Male and female baboons of all ages emit high pitched screams as a defense tactic against antagonistic males.

Yakking and clicking: As a signal of retreat and pacification to a threat, sub-adult and adult baboons issue a short and sharp “yak” while juveniles and infants make a chirping or clicking sound. 

Shrill bark: Except for the adult males, all troop members make an explosive single alarm cry when there is immediate danger.  It’s a sign for the troop to flee. 

Doglike bark: This is a call made when troop members are separated from the troop, and has a higher pitch than the shrill bark. It can be interpreted as ‘where are you?’.

Chattering: Juveniles make rapid nasal murmurs as a sign of enjoyment and contentedness.

Purring: Low-frequency vocalizations that can resemble a purring sound, particularly during moments of contentment or social bonding. Often heard when baboons are grooming each other or resting together, indicating a sense of relaxation.

Laughing:  A series of short, breathy exhalations, almost like a “ha-ha-ha” or “heh-heh-heh” that can vary in intensity. This sound is commonly heard during playful interactions, especially among younger baboons or when baboons engage in friendly social behaviors like grooming or chasing.