What species of baboon lives in Rooiels?
The Chacma baboon, which is one of six baboon species.
Chacma is derived from the Khoikhoi word for baboons ‘cho-achamma’ or ‘choa kamma’ Their scientific name Papio ursinus means ‘bear-like baboon’.
There are two sub-species of Chacma baboon. Here in Rooiels, and across southern South Africa, you’ll find the Cape chacma (Papio ursinus ursinus). The other sub-species is the Grey-footed chacma (P. ursinus griseipes) which ranges from northern South Africa up into Zambia, Namibia and Angola.
