Dr. Phil Zeltzman’s Blog
Fascinating Monkeys in South Africa and Zimbabwe
| I was very fortunate to recently visit South Africa and Zimbabwe after a veterinary conference. Since 100% of the pet owners we meet are animal lovers, I thought I would share some information and pictures about his incredible trip. |
When traveling through southern Africa, it’s impossible to miss the lively antics of monkeys.
We mostly observed 2 species: vervet monkeys and baboons.
These primates are not only fascinating from a scientific perspective, but their bold behavior provides unforgettable moments for visitors – sometimes a bit scary!
Here’s a look at these cheeky creatures and my personal encounters with them.
Vervet Monkeys in South Africa
Vervet monkeys may not be the most well-known monkeys, but they are found across sub-Saharan Africa.
They are small monkeys, weighing only 6 to 11 lbs (3 to 5 kg).
For comparison, that’s the weight of a Yorkie or a mini Doxie.
They have distinctive, cute, black faces framed by white fur and long tails that help with their agile movements.
These monkeys are highly social, living in troops that can range from a few individuals to over 50.
Their diet is omnivorous, meaning they eat a bit of everything, including fruits, flowers, insects, and sometimes small animals.
Adorable Vervet Babies
Vervet monkey babies are adorable, with their tiny black faces and inquisitive eyes.
These shy little ones are often seen clinging tightly to their mothers’ bellies as the moms move gracefully through trees.
As they grow, they begin to explore their surroundings cautiously, staying close to their protective mothers.
The sight of a vervet mother tenderly grooming her baby is a heartwarming reminder of the strong bonds within these social groups.
A Bold Encounter
During lunch in South Africa, I witnessed just how bold vervet monkeys can be.
A guest was enjoying his meal when, in the blink of an eye, a vervet jumped onto the table and grabbed a piece of chicken.
The guest’s surprised scream was met with the monkey’s triumphant retreat to a nearby tree, where she enjoyed her stolen snack.
I apologize for the blurry pictures, but it’s a miracle I was able to get shots from the encounter, which lasted a split second!
And during this entire scene – her baby clung to her belly!
Baboons in Zimbabwe
Baboons are much bigger monkeys. They are among the largest primates in Africa.
Male typically weigh 44 to 88 lbs (20 to 40 kg), so between a Border Collie and a Lab.
Females average 22 to 33 lbs (10 to 15 kg), same as a Cocker or a Beagle.
These primates live in complex social structures and display remarkable intelligence, including tool use and problem-solving skills.
Their diet is even more varied than that of vervet monkeys, ranging from plants to small mammals.
Close Call with a Baboon
One afternoon in Zimbabwe, while visiting the impressive Victoria Falls, I found myself a little too close to a baboon for comfort.
It certainly wasn’t intentional. We simply stumbled across a group crossing the path…
We stopped and observed, respectfully, with complete admiration since it was by far the closest encounter, and the biggest group.
They kept moving around us, looking for food on the ground.
At one point, a large male sat just a few feet away.
I froze (OK, OK, aside from taking 348 pictures of him!).
For a heart-stopping moment, I thought he might leap toward me.
Instead, he jumped into a tree with effortless grace.
While baboons can be intimidating due to their size and sharp canines, they generally avoid conflict with humans unless provoked or seeking food.
The canines of a male are easily the size of those of a German shepherd or a Rottie!
Why Are Monkeys So Bold?
Since we invaded their territory, these monkeys have adapted to human presence, often frequenting tourist spots where they’ve learned that food is very easy to come by.
Both vervet monkeys and baboons have adapted to living alongside humans.
In many areas, their natural habitats overlap with villages, towns, and tourist hotspots.
They’ve learned that humans often mean easy access to food, whether it’s from unattended picnics, restaurant tables, or open car windows.
Their boldness is a testament to their intelligence and adaptability, but it’s also a reminder of the challenges of human-wildlife coexistence.
A Word of Caution
While vervet monkeys and baboons might seem amusing or endearing, it’s important to treat them with respect.
Feeding them or leaving food accessible can encourage aggressive behavior and disrupt their natural foraging habits.
Observing these animals from a safe distance ensures both your safety and their well-being.
Final Thoughts
From the cheeky vervet monkey who stole a restaurant guest’s chicken dinner to the imposing baboon that startled me in the Wild, these primates leave a lasting impression.
Their boldness adds a unique charm to encounters with Africa’s wildlife, blending humor and awe.
Just remember to protect your snacks – and keep your distance!
We can’t help your baboon, but if you would like to learn how we can help your cat or your dog with safe surgery and anesthesia, please contact us through www.DrPhilZeltzman.com
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Phil Zeltzman, DVM, DACVS, CVJ, Fear Free Certified
Dr. Phil Zeltzman is a traveling veterinary surgeon in Pennsylvania & New Jersey. An award-winning author, he loves to share his adventures in practice along with information about vet medicine and surgery that can really help your pets. Dr. Zeltzman specializes in orthopedic, neurologic, cancer, and soft tissue surgeries for dogs, cats, and small exotics. By working with local family vets, he offers the best surgical care, safest anesthesia, and utmost pain management to all his patients. Sign up to get an email when he updates his blog, and follow him on Facebook, too!