A wilder
perspective.

The Gelada baboon, also called ‘The Bleeding Heart Baboon’, is endemic to Ethiopia. The animals are found on most of the highland plateaus of the Simien Mountains, inside and outside the Park, and their total number has been estimated at more than 3000 animals. Due to the absence of natural enemies, the population is still on the increase. The baboons live in herds of 100 to 200 animals, and their occurrence has been reported from most highland areas above 3000 m asl. As the Gelada baboons are not too shy, the animals can easily be approached. The main diet of the Gelada baboon consists of grasses and roots. This has led to conflicts with peasants, who fear extensive destruction of their crops.

The original population estimate and descriptions of wildlife encounters require verification. They are not current sighting guarantees or visitor guidance.