Guinea baboon
The Guinea baboon, also known as the red baboon, lives in Africa, including the Sahara. They are the smallest baboon species found worldwide.
Habitat
As habitats, dry areas and open forests are preferred, usually located near a water source. Guinea baboons live in groups of up to 60 animals, consisting of several females and males, as well as their offspring. Among the males, there is a strict hierarchy that is regularly established through fights. Otherwise, the animals are generally peaceful with each other.
Behavior
Male baboons reach sexual maturity at around five to seven years of age, while female baboons reach sexual maturity at around four to five years. It can be observed that female baboons are ready for conception by a pink swelling in the genital area. After a gestation period of approximately 185 days, a single young is born, which clings to its mother's belly for the first while.
Much later, the young begins to explore its immediate surroundings and may even climb onto its mother's back. At 14 months, the young animals must fend for themselves as they are fully weaned from their mother. Overall, baboons have a life expectancy of 45 years, though many do not reach this age due to countless predators.
The Guinea baboon is diurnal and spends almost exclusively time on the ground, but at night it prefers trees and higher places to sleep in order to avoid falling prey to predators while sleeping. If a group member is attacked by a predator, it warns its troop with loud calls so that they can escape to safety.
Diet
The Guinea baboon feeds on plant-based food, such as various grasses and leaves, but also on insects and other animals. African mammals are considered omnivores due to their varied diet.
