Cape chacma
A species of Baboons Scientific name : Papio ursinus ursinus Genus : Baboons
Cape chacma, A species of Baboons
Scientific name: Papio ursinus ursinus
Genus: Baboons
Content
Description General Info
Description
Cape chacma exhibits unique social and mating behaviors known as 'ranked hierarchy'. High-ranking males secure most mating opportunities, but lower-ranking males use social alliances and coalitions to gain access. Primarily vegetarian, cape chacma contributes to seed dispersal in its habitat, boosting plant biodiversity.
General Info
Lifespan
20-30 years
Diet
Cape chacma are omnivores. Their diet primarily comprises of fruits and seeds, supplemented by roots, tubers, and insects. They show a preference for foraging on the ground, often raiding local crops, symbolizing their adaptable dietary nature.
Appearance
Cape chacma is a large primate with a grounded, stout body covered in dense fur. It has a dominant grey-brown coloration with a lighter underbelly. Notable features include a long, lean tail and broad, hairless face with pronounced brow ridges. Males exhibit larger canines and manes compared to females. Intense maturation leads to darkening fur in both genders.
Behavior
Cape chacma is a highly social, diurnal species, living in troops of varying sizes. It constructs sleeping nests at night in trees to protect against predators. Distinctly, it utilizes complex vocalizations as communication forms within its troop. Additionally, they display a foraging behavior involving both plant and small animal consumption. Notably, cape chacma demonstrates a hierarchal society with marked territoriality.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Apes Family
Old world monkeys Genus
Baboons Species
Cape chacma