Hysterocrates gigas

**Cameroon Red Baboon** — A large, impressive fossorial African species known for its rich reddish-brown coloration and fast growth rate. An obligate burrower requiring deep, moist substrate that can hold tunnel structure. Often associated with water sources in the wild — a water dish is important and some keepers incorporate small water features. Research (Shillington 2002) found that juvenile groups show unusually high mutual tolerance and cooperative feeding behavior; keeper experiences with communal setups are genuinely mixed, with success most commonly reported during the juvenile stage. The main communal risk is during molts, when tankmates may prey on a vulnerable individual. No urticating hairs. Defensive but not highly aggressive unprovoked. Old World species — do not handle.