Overview
As daylight fades, spotted hyenas begin to stir. A distant whoop carries across the plains as clan members leave their resting places and begin searching the landscape for food.
Often dismissed as scavengers, spotted hyenas are highly capable predators that hunt much of what they eat. Their exceptional stamina allows them to pursue antelope over long distances, while coordinated groups can tackle prey much larger than an individual hyena. They also scavenge whenever the opportunity arises, just as lions and other large carnivores do.
Spotted hyenas live in complex, female-dominated clans that may contain dozens of individuals. Each animal occupies a position within a strict hierarchy, and relationships, alliances and inherited rank influence access to food and social support. Their adaptability and intelligence have helped make them one of Africa’s most successful large carnivores.
Behaviour & How to Identify
Look for a powerfully built carnivore with a broad head, rounded ears and a back that slopes noticeably towards the hindquarters. The coat varies from sandy yellow to greyish brown and is covered with irregular dark spots, while the short tail ends in a darker tuft.
Clans defend territories using scent marks, communal latrines and an extensive range of vocalisations. The long-distance whoop helps individuals locate one another, while giggles, grunts, groans and calls convey excitement, submission, alarm or frustration. Their famous “laugh” is not an expression of amusement.
Spotted hyenas are mainly active from dusk to dawn, although they may hunt or travel during daylight. Their powerful jaws and specialised teeth can break open large bones, allowing them to consume marrow and other nutritious material unavailable to many predators.
Interesting facts
Females dominate the clan. They are generally larger than males, and even low-ranking adult females usually outrank immigrant males.
They are accomplished hunters, not merely scavengers. Depending on habitat and available prey, spotted hyenas may kill most of the food they consume.
Their digestive system can process bone. Bones, skin and connective tissue can all be consumed, although hair and some other indigestible material are later regurgitated.