This morning dawned crisp and clear after the recent Northwesterly storms: perfect for an early morning walk in the Cape Point Reserve. The gate opens at 7am and we wanted to look at Platboom beach to see what the sea-storms had washed ashore. Instead we were delighted to come across one of the resident baboon troops foraging along the road. Quietly we followed in the car at a cautious distance; they tucked into the fynbos (Cape vegetation) with gusto and it was interesting to see the variety of plants they ate. The sugarbush blooms looked a hot favourite, as well as the leucodendron cones. They fulfill a valuable role within the ecosystem in plant seed dispersal, either through their scat or by transferring seeds that stick to their fur.
Nature on the Edge 
Incredible set of photos Liz. Fascinating critters – I could spend days/weeks with them, observing and photographing year-round. The natural history was excellent too. Glad you shared this.
Yes, they’re quite beguiling…. They have quite a history too…. the human/wildlife conflict right on the urban edge is ongoing, but the City Council, to their credit pump in millions to management the conflict.
What a colourful diet they have, Great shots Liz!
Hi Gilly, i often think of the image of children in a sweet shop when i see the youngsters set to in the veld – love those sugarbush blooms đŸ™‚ Munch them up like chocolates.
hahaha I wonder if humans can eat them!
.. add a bit of fiber to the diet?!
very beautiful photos, the younguest are ver cute.
Thanks Daisy! Yes, the littlest can get to the heart. The juveniles play, the sub-adults are a bit more boisterous and the adults have their set roles…. it’s a bit like people watching! They’re fascinating đŸ™‚
Have you ever tried to eat a sugarbush bloom? Are they edible for humans too? They’re so pretty and I think they would look yummy in a salad.
Traditionally they are known for their sweet nectar… in fact the early settlers made a syrup from the blooms – known as ‘bossiestroop’ – bush syrup, or ‘bossuiker’ – bush sugar. They’re a pretty tough flower, wiry …. not nearly as palatable as say a nasturtium or violet, but good for decorative purposes đŸ™‚
My 4 year old really liked these photos !
Thanks for the feedback, Ad Dad đŸ™‚ Great to know that you have a budding nature lover, i recall some of your blog posts on hiking … Well done on encouraging his curiosity đŸ™‚
Wonderful! I would like to see a troop of baboons.
Ruth…. they’re sure are captivating! Thanks for stopping by.
They’re fascinating creatures… must admit i find them captivating.
It’s a joy to watch these guys hang out together:) Great shots, Liz!
Yes… they’re captivating đŸ™‚