Baboons are not classified as strict carnivores; rather, they are omnivorous. This means that their diet consists of a variety of foods, including plants and animals.
In the wild, baboons primarily consume fruits, seeds, and leaves. However, they are also known to eat insects and small animals, which includes young birds and rodents. This flexible diet allows them to adapt to varying environments and food availability.
In essence, while baboons do eat meat, it constitutes only a portion of their overall diet. Their omnivorous nature plays a critical role in their survival, enabling them to thrive in diverse habitats across Africa.