After spending an extensive period of time monitoring the integration, movements and behaviour of Kataza the baboon, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA is proposing he be relocated to a wildlife rehabilitation centre in Limpopo.
In a statement, the SPCA explain that they are concerned about Kataza following his relocation from Kommetjie to Tokai.
“We hoped he would integrate and be able to live out his natural life on the Peninsula but we are now concerned about his wellbeing and welfare, and that of other animals and the public in general,” they said.
On October 21, the SPCA states they approached the City of Cape Town with a proposal to capture Kataza, also known as SK11, and relocate him to the Riverside Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Limpopo.
The rehabilitation centre is owned and managed by well-known primatologist Mr Bob Venter, who welcomes the arrival of Kataza. All costs associated with the relocation process will be borne by Cape of Good Hope SPCA on receipt of approval from Cape Nature.
A representative of the City of Cape Town allegedly responded on October 21, informing the Cape of Good Hope SPCA that, inter alia, the City does not agree with certain statements expressed in their correspondence regarding the condition and behaviour of Kataza.
The SPCA claims that the representative also said that the City of Cape Town does not own the wild baboons in the Cape Peninsula and that the Cape of Good Hope SPCA would need to approach Cape Nature for the relevant permits.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has since submitted an application to Cape Nature for the necessary permit to capture and relocate Kataza to the Riverside Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
“We are of the view that this is the only solution for SK11 / Kataza at this stage. Relocating SK11 / Kataza back to his natal troop in Slangkop is not an option as he will be met with the same reintegration challenges,” said the SPCA in a statement.
“We are particularly concerned about his raiding behaviour escalating in his natal territory, which may result in dire consequences for him, something that the Cape of Good Hope SPCA aims to avert with this proposed solution.”
Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA