CAPE TOWN GETS THE GREEN LIGHT TO USE PAINTBALL GUNS ON BABOONS

Baboons in residential areas in the City of Cape Town have always been a nuisance. But, lately, it's become a big problem.

With residents up in arms and resorting to their own initiatives to get rid of the baboons pestering them, authorities have been called in.

The Cape of Good Hope Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and CapeNature have a temporary solution. They have given residents the green light to use paintball guns to keep the baboons from damaging their properties.

The City said the temporary reintroduction of paintball markers was formed by the alarming increase in baboon troops in urban areas since 14 May. They are concerned with the impact this was having on the health and safety of baboons and residents, reports News24.

In a joint statement, the two authorities confirmed that paintball guns are allowed from 25 June 2021.

"Cape Nature hereby confirms that the humane use of paintball markers as an aversion tool, to keep baboons out of the urban areas and in their natural habitat, remains legal".

Authorities have been tasked to train all baboon rangers in the area to use paintball guns.

Image credit: Daily Maverick