It seems like fate that just when we completed a new habitat for olive baboons Olive and Saffron allowing them to experience grass, trees and climbing structures, Primarily Primates received a call to take in two baboons from a struggling sanctuary in California. Hamadryas baboon Jack, an ex-pet, is certainly settling in nicely—he starts every day by scampering down from one of his perches and greeting grounds manager Tracey, who actually helped construct his new habitat. Perhaps Jack is communicating his gratitude. Baboons use at least 10 different vocalizations to communicate with other members of the troop. We’re not the only ones who think Jack looks regal with his silver-grey shoulder cape. Hamadryas baboons were revered in ancient Egypt as sacred animals and servants of Thoth, the ancient Egyptian god who balanced good and evil and also served as the scribe of the gods. They were often depicted in ancient Egyptian art. Hence their unofficial name, the “sacred baboon.” There are actually five species of baboons, all of whom live in Africa or Arabia. While four of the species live in the savanna in the wild, hamadryas baboons like Jack actually live on cliffs in the hills along the Red Sea coasts of Africa and Arabia. The highest priority for this species is finding a habitat with ready access to water. They can live up to 30 years in the wild. Click here to learn how you can sponsor Jack or any other animal at the sanctuary.