The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has launched an investigation into the death of Fluffy, a baboon who died from injuries sustained from pellets. On October 7, 2026, the SPCA received video footage showing Fluffy dragging his hind legs, with initial reports suggesting he had fallen from a tree and lost the use of his hindquarters. A wildlife veterinarian was called to dart him in the field before he was transported to the SPCA for further veterinary assessment.
X-rays revealed numerous pellets lodged throughout Fluffy's body, including in his spine and around his internal organs. The findings pointed to repeated shooting, according to the SPCA. Given the severity of his condition and suffering, veterinarians made the decision to euthanise him. Fluffy had also lost control of his bladder. The SPCA is urging anyone with information to come forward.
The SPCA is offering a R5,000 reward for information leading to the identification and prosecution of those responsible for Fluffy's death. The organisation has warned that baboons living in urban environments can be exposed to abuse, inappropriate food, and conflict with people. The SPCA also noted that access to food in residential areas does not make these environments safe for wild animals.
Fluffy was known to field staff and was a familiar presence within his troop. The SPCA is appealing for information from anyone who witnessed the shooting, has photographs or video footage, or holds other information that could help identify and prosecute those responsible. The public can contact the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Inspectorate via telephone, email, or WhatsApp.
In a separate incident, residents in Pringle Bay have raised concerns about baboon welfare after a young baboon was reportedly struck by a vehicle. Kogelberg Villages Environmental Trustees (KVET) said residents had supplied photographs and video showing a female baboon carrying the body of the young animal. The circumstances surrounding the reported collision and the subsequent events could not be independently verified.
According to KVET, the troop was dispersed and the young baboon was subsequently struck by a vehicle. Residents later witnessed the female carrying the dead infant while accompanied by other members of the troop. The organisation said residents were distressed by what they witnessed and had shared footage with KVET.
The two incidents have drawn attention to concerns about the welfare of baboons living in and around urban areas. Overstrand Municipality has previously stated that its Eco-Rangers and KVET Bio-Monitors are separate groups, and that KVET's Bio-Monitors do not work with or take instructions from the municipality's Eco-Rangers.
Key points
- The SPCA is offering a R5,000 reward for information leading to the identification and prosecution of those responsible for Fluffy's death.
