SK11, alias Kataza, returned to his natal troop in Kommetjie area

12 November 2020

The City of Cape Town wants to inform residents and interested parties that the male chacma baboon SK11, colloquially referred to as Kataza, has been returned to his natal Slangkop troop home range earlier today, 12 November 2020. Read more below:

The return of SK11, colloquially referred to as Kataza, to his natal Slangkop troop home range followed after detailed monitoring of the situation by the City.

SK11 (Kataza) was captured in the Tokai area in the morning. All forms of artificial identification were removed, and he was assessed by a veterinarian before his release in his natal Slangkop troop home range soon after. His capture and release took place in accordance with the approved guidelines for baboon management.

The SPCA’s senior inspector and veterinarian were on site and monitored the capture and release. The City can confirm that he was found to be fit and healthy prior to his release.

As stated before, upon his release, SK11 (Kataza’s) previous raiding record will not be considered in future decisions. This is in an effort to give him a fair chance to adjust to his natal home range, namely the surrounding mountains in the Kommetjie area.

The City kindly requests the public to please not follow SK11 (Kataza) now that he has been released, and to allow him space and time within his natal Slangkop troop home range. This is pivotal, as interference may have an impact on his movements.

SK11 (Kataza) and the Slangkop troop will be monitored as per usual by the City’s new service provider NCC Environmental Services. This includes encouraging the troop to forage in its home range and remaining out of the urban environment.

The City would like to encourage the surrounding community to assist by baboon proofing their properties as far as possible, and to reduce food attractants as this will discourage raiding.

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office