The National Centre for Wildlife (NCW) in Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning to residents and citizens about the consequences of feeding baboons. Offenders caught engaging in this activity will face a hefty fine of 500 riyals as part of the Kingdom's efforts to manage the growing baboon population and its environmental impacts.

Dr. Mohammsd Al Qurban, Head of the NCW, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Environment for implementing this penalty and emphasized that the enforcement is being monitored through surveillance cameras.

The NCW has launched an initiative to manage the increasing baboon population after conducting comprehensive studies to understand the extent of the problem. Their research revealed the presence of approximately 40,000 baboons in urban areas.

Remarkably, areas previously heavily populated by baboons are now mostly free of them, thanks to approved methods such as sterilization and public awareness campaigns.

Improvements in waste management, particularly in treating containers and landfills, are also expected to contribute significantly to the success of the program.

Baboons are a type of primate found in Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula, including Saudi Arabia. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, consuming a diverse diet of fruits, grasses, seeds, insects, small mammals, and birds.

Let's respect the natural balance and protect the environment by refraining from feeding these wild creatures. Together, we can ensure a harmonious coexistence with the wildlife around us.