Baboon on the loose in Johannesburg: Latest location and safety tips [video]

There’s plenty of monkey business going off in Johannesburg on Wednesday afternoon after a baboon appeared on the streets of the city. The animal has not escaped from anywhere local, but has in fact been on a little journey.

Where in Johannesburg is this baboon?

The creature was first spotted in Krugersdorp a few weeks ago, but earlier in the day, the baboon was reported by several surprised residents who had no idea what to do about the situation. The last sighting of the primate was in the region of Northcliffe and Roosevelt Park, just before 13:00.

A contingency plan is in place and local animal welfare groups (such as Claw) are confident they can safely catch the animal and return him to his natural habitat. But will the baboon fall for the rouse?

This is a trap Community Led Animal Welfare is planning to use to capture the baboon. It's been roaming around this area for the past 3 weeks. pic.twitter.com/7cjzEUDgR0

— KhayelihleKhumalo (@KhayaJames) July 17, 2019

Safety tips

Baboons may look cute from a distance, but their red arses should serve as a warning for the general public. We’ve already got Claw representatives telling locals to get inside if they see this cheesed-off chimp, as it is not used to human interaction. Baboons often act in fear and frustration, and could easily decide to attack anyone who approaches them.

Another safety tip you can have from our top drawer is to avoid feeding them at all costs: Once they associate you with food, they’re likely to try and ransack your vehicle, home, or even personal belongings for sustenance. If you are near the Northcliff or Roosevelt Park region, keep your doors locked and your windows closed.

#ATT This monkey has been spotted loitering around in NorthCliff and Roosevelt Park. Attempts are being made to catch it. Any suggestions? ? pic.twitter.com/N03mQJCbAI

— PigSpotter™ Pty Ltd (@PigSpotter) July 17, 2019

Watch the baboon make its way across Johannesburg here:

Dramatic drone footage of the baboon’s freedom run has been shared by the Intelligence Bureau Facebook page. First uploaded by Northcliff Melville Times, the animal can be seen darting from rooftop-to-rooftop, swinging its way up Lawley Street. Given how dangerous these fellas can be, this is probably the safest distance to observe them from:

• If you’ve seen the baboon or know of its whereabouts, you are urged to immediately contact 082 926 3627.  Nearby residents are also advised to keep all pets indoors.