Watch This Agile Baboon Ward off a Group of Feisty Mongooses

Continue reading for our analysis...

The scene might have started on an equal playing field, but three baboons quickly turned into one against a group of agitated mongooses. Maybe the other two primates had enough of the assault, with the last one hanging onto its courage.

The lone baboon was in trouble as the mongooses continually swarmed and charged him. He dodged each attack, leaping in the air to avoid the swarm. However, he would eventually go on the offensive. As the mongoose group remained clustered, the baboon would strategically grab members one by one. He aimed for their tails, swinging them in the air with ease. The daring mongooses would eventually get the hint and back off, allowing the monkey to walk away in peace. While they surely had a numbers advantage, the baboon was too powerful to defeat. According to the video notes, this comical scene took place in Marloth Park, a wildlife sanctuary stationed south of the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa. Continue reading to learn more about the toughness of mongooses and the intimidating strength of baboons.

How Tough Are Mongooses?

Despite their small stature (growing up to 1-3 feet and weighing around 0.7-11 pounds), mongooses should not be taken lightly. They are quick and agile predators that have no problem fighting above their weight class. In fact, mongooses are known to kill venomous snakes like cobras. Interestingly, scientists believe they might have partial immunity to snake venom. Mongooses are opportunistic hunters, snatching anything from small birds and reptiles to insects and crabs. Omnivorous, this impressive species also supplements its diet with nuts, fruit, seeds, eggs, and more.

How Dangerous Are Baboons?

A member of the Old World monkeys family — the most prominent family of primates — baboons are a mighty species. While there are five species of baboons, the largest can weigh up to 100 pounds. They are also omnivorous and enjoy a balance of grass and fruit, insects, birds, rodents, etc. Some physical traits that make baboons intimidating are their dog-like muzzles, sharp canines, and strong bite force. Lastly, baboons are incredibly dangerous in the groups they assemble called troops. As we noticed in the footage, though, one baboon was enough to handle a group of tough but tiny mongooses.