African wild dogs and hyenas, iconic African predators, are often mistakenly grouped due to their similar habitats and predatory roles. Despite these superficial resemblances, they represent entirely distinct evolutionary lineages. Understanding their differences reveals unique adaptations for their challenging environments. This article explores their classifications, physical attributes, and behaviors.
Not the Same: Their Scientific Classifications
African wild dogs and hyenas belong to separate mammalian families. African wild dogs, scientifically known as Lycaon pictus, are members of the Canidae family, which includes dogs, wolves, and foxes. The genus Lycaon is distinct, with Lycaon pictus being its only surviving member. Their evolutionary path separated from other canids over 1.7 million years ago.
Hyenas, in contrast, belong to the Hyaenidae family. This family is more closely related to felines and mongooses than to canids. There are four extant species of hyenas: the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), brown hyena (Parahyaena brunnea), and aardwolf (Proteles cristata). The Hyaenidae family originated in Miocene Eurasia approximately 22 million years ago. While hyenas share some behavioral and physical similarities with canids due to convergent evolution, their classification places them within the feliform suborder.
Contrasting Physical Traits
Physical characteristics provide clear distinctions. African wild dogs possess a lean, slender build with long legs, adapted for endurance running. They stand approximately 60 to 75 cm (24 to 30 in) at the shoulders and weigh between 18 to 36 kg (40 to 79 lb). Their large, rounded ears are prominent and assist in heat regulation.
Their coat is uniquely patterned with irregular blotches of black, brown, white, and yellow. They have a bushy tail, often tipped with white, which can serve as a visual signal within the pack.
Hyenas, particularly the spotted hyena, have a more robust, bear-like build with forelegs that are longer than their hind legs, resulting in a distinct sloping back. Their ears are rounded, similar to those of African wild dogs, but their overall head shape is larger and more powerful. Spotted hyenas have a coarse, spotted pelt, while striped and brown hyenas have striped coats and a more pronounced mane. Hyenas possess exceptionally powerful jaws capable of crushing bones, a feature not found in African wild dogs. Their tails are shorter and less bushy.
Divergent Behaviors and Ecologies
African wild dogs exhibit highly cooperative social structures and hunting strategies. They live in packs with strong social bonds, where solitary living is rare. These canines are specialized pursuit predators, primarily hunting medium-sized ungulates by exhausting them through long chases, often reaching speeds of up to 66 km/h (41 mph). Their hunting success rate is high due to coordinated teamwork and communication through vocalizations and body language. African wild dogs also display unique behaviors such as regurgitating food for pups and even other adults, ensuring the pack’s well-being.
Hyenas, especially spotted hyenas, live in complex social groups called clans. Spotted hyena society is matriarchal, with females being larger and dominating males. While often perceived as scavengers, spotted hyenas are skilled hunters, with their diet primarily consisting of direct kills. They use their powerful jaws to consume nearly all parts of a carcass, including bones, playing a significant role in nutrient cycling.
Hyenas communicate through a range of vocalizations, including the distinctive “whooping” call of the spotted hyena. Striped and brown hyenas are more solitary and opportunistic hunters, incorporating scavenging and fruit. The aardwolf specializes in consuming insects, primarily termites.