There are five different species of baboons, and all of them live in either Africa or Arabia.
Four baboon species (Chacma, Olive, Yellow, and Guinea) are known as the savanna baboons. These monkeys form large groups that can consist of dozens or even hundreds. The males in these groups use physical power to dominate rivals, and members spend hours grooming one another to remove insects and dead skin.
A fifth species, the hamadryas baboon, lives in the hills along the Red Sea coasts of Africa and Arabia. These cliff-dwelling baboons forage during the day and reunite in small groups at night.
Baboons are some of the world's largest monkeys, and the males of different species average anywhere from 33 to 82 pounds. Baboon bodies are typically 20 to 40 inches long, not including the substantial length of their tails!
Baboons generally prefer dry climates, like the savanna and other semi-arid habitats, though a few do live in tropical forests.
Baboons do not have prehensile tails, which means their tails can’t grasp things. Although they’re still able to climb trees to sleep, eat, or look out for trouble, they spend much of their time on the ground.
Baboons are fond of crops and, unfortunately, become destructive pests to many African farmers. They eat fruits, grass, seeds, bark, and roots, but also have a taste for meat. They eat birds, rodents, and even small mammals, such as young antelopes and sheep.