BABOON activists are reeling after a male baboon, fondly known as “Blondie” was found dead.
Blondie is believed to have been shot. His body was discovered in Palace Hill Road, Simon's Town on Saturday. Police and authorities have yet to confirm the cause of death.
Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation had been following the Blondie’s movements through Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town, Kalk Bay to Clovelly, Elsie’s Peak and Glencairn said the baboon had a wound resembling a bullet hole and was likely shot.
Lynda Silk, Chairperson and spokesperson for Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation said they believed “Blondie” was a victim of a vicious attack.
She says: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of the baboon known as Blondie.
“Only last weekend we were following the progress of this dispersing male baboon through Kalk Bay, Clovelly, Fish Hoek, Elsie's Peak and Glencairn.
“There was hope when he found his way to Simon's Town and began attempts to join the Waterfall troop.
“It is devastating that against so many odds Blondie did so well, spent so little time in the urban area along his swift journey, only to die by what seems to be human hands when he attempted to settle.
“We urge anybody with information to come forward. Blondie was given this nickname because of his unusually fair fur. He was a mature adult male who journeyed from Tokai troop through Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Elsie's Peak, Glencairn to Simon's Town.
“In Simon's Town he had begun engaging with the Waterfall baboon troop, seeking to integrate with them. There had been some conflict as is usual when a new baboon tries to join a troop.
“We are awaiting a post-mortem investigation to give a formal cause of death. The entry wound on his chest suggests that he was shot.”
If anyone has any information about this case they are welcome to contact the SPCA Inspectorate on 021 700 4158/9 email inspectorate@spca-ct.co.za or make a report online.
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