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April 3rd, 2025
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Nelson Mandela Univeristy
animal behavior and cognition
biorxiv

Absence of reactive temporal response of baboons to the occurrence of predators

van Rooyen, N. T.Open in Google Scholar•Thel, L.Open in Google Scholar•Venter, J.Open in Google Scholar•Fritz, H.Open in Google Scholar•Prugnolle, F.Open in Google Scholar•Rougeron, V.Open in Google Scholar

Predation exerts a strong selective pressure on prey species, shaping their behavioral adaptations. While proactive strategies such as habitat selection and increased vigilance allow prey to anticipate threats, reactive responses, including immediate flight or retaliation, occur on direct detection of a predator. Baboons (Papio spp.) encounter various predators across their extensive range, but their behavioral responses to these threats remain poorly understood. Using camera trap data from four savanna sites, three in South Africa (Madikwe Game Reserve, Tswalu Kalahari Private Wildlife Reserve, and the Associated Private Nature Reserves) and one in Tanzania (Serengeti National Park). This study examined whether chacma (P. ursinus) and olive (P. anubis) baboons exhibit reactive temporal avoidance following the occurrence of their main predators, lions (Panthera leo), leopards (Panthera pardus), and spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta). Using a randomization test, we analysed baboon presence patterns within three 24-hour time blocks before and after the occurrence of a predator. There was no significant decrease in baboon presence following a predator event, suggesting the absence of reactive temporal avoidance in baboons. These results suggest that baboons may rely on alternative predator avoidance strategies, such as early detection, sentinel behavior, or aggressive retaliation. This study highlights the importance of sample size in detecting behavioral responses and highlights the possible limitations of camera traps in capturing arboreal escape strategies.

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