Baboons are one of the most broadly-distributed and intensively-studied primate genera and – with the exception of macaques and humans – show perhaps the greatest ecological flexibility among primates. Due to these factors, baboons have much to contribute to the fields of primate socioecology and paleoanthropology. Unfortunately, comparative analyses of the ecology and behavior of baboon populations are hindered by differences in behavioral categories, data collection methods, and analytical techniques across study sites and field projects. In an effort to promote comparative studies across baboon populations that will inform our understanding of baboon behavior, ecology, and evolution, we are in the process of establishing a comprehensive database for baboon research. The first step in this process is a central location for all links to baboon research projects and sources of data. We hope this will lead to a greater effort among primatologists to share data, develop comparable data collection methods, and engage in collaborative cross-population analyses. Ultimately, we hope that a greater understanding of the variation, flexibility, and evolution of baboons will contribute to a better understanding of primate socioecology and human evolution.