Management at Kruger National Park has expressed concern over baboons frequenting the Skukuza Rest Camp.
‘Baboons can easily jump into the camp because it’s in a riverine area with overhanging trees,’ management said in a statement on its Facebook group. ‘It’s nearly impossible to keep them out but since they generally only eat wild fruits and vegetation available to them it isn’t a problem.’
Management added that when human food is easily accessible, the baboons quickly become habituated to the camp and can cause considerable damage to infrastructure. There is also the risk that the baboons could become aggressive to humans.
‘By directly feeding baboons and monkeys, not storing food securely or not responsibly dealing with your food waste, you are habituating primates and creating problem animals. Those actions might lead to dire consequences, not only for the animals but for humans as well,’ management continued.
‘While Kruger Management does its part to prevent further damage to infrastructure and make sure there isn’t any human injury, please do your part. Be a responsible tourist and help create a safe environment for all,’ the statement concluded.
Picture: Unsplash
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