Why do baboons fight?

Baboons fight for power, survival, and resources, but their conflicts are not mindless—they follow clear social rules. While aggression is common, most disputes are settled through displays and intimidation rather than full-on violence.  

Male baboons fight to achieve dominant positions in the troop hierarchy. Even if they are not trying to take over the alpha position, they may fight to get a higher rank, and the increased privileges that come with it. But challenges for the alpha position often lead to intense battles between individuals or groups.

The males may also fight over a female.  This is usually limited to chasing each other and making threatening displays. 

Mothers, and sometimes males will fiercely defend their young if they are threatened by another baboon. 

There are also petty squabbles, which can get physical, like fighting over high-value food, personal grudges or irritation. These are usually short-lived  scuffles.

When serious fights break out between males, the females ensure that they and offspring don’t get caught in the crossfire by rapidly putting distance between themselves and the aggression.