Many people wonder if the distinctive hyena, with its powerful build and unique calls, is a relative of the domestic cat or dog. The physical appearance and social behaviors of hyenas often lead to this common question. This article will explore the biological classification of hyenas, clarifying their true place in the animal kingdom and dispelling prevalent misconceptions about their lineage.
The Hyena’s True Place
Hyenas are neither true felines (family Felidae) nor true canines (family Canidae). They belong to their own distinct biological family, Hyaenidae. This family is part of the suborder Feliformia, which includes cat-like carnivores such as cats, civets, and mongooses. This classification places hyenas evolutionarily closer to felines than to canines, despite some superficial similarities with dogs.
While their ancestors shared a common lineage with felines roughly 30 million years ago, hyenas have since developed distinct characteristics. This evolutionary path highlights their unique and ancient lineage within the carnivore order.
Why Hyenas Aren’t Felines
Hyenas exhibit distinct biological and behavioral differences from true felines, despite being in the same suborder. Felines have retractable claws for climbing and ambushing prey. In contrast, hyenas have blunt, non-retractable claws suited for endurance running and ground traction, like canids.
Hyenas’ skull structure and dental formula also differ from cats. Spotted hyenas, in particular, have exceptionally powerful jaws and large premolars for crushing bones, a capability exceeding most felines. Cats primarily use their sharp canines and blade-like carnassials for tearing flesh. While many felines are solitary ambush hunters, spotted hyenas employ social, cooperative hunting strategies, often chasing prey.
Why Hyenas Aren’t Canines
Though hyenas superficially resemble dogs, they are not canines. Their lineage is Feliformia, while dogs belong to Caniformia. This ancestral difference distinguishes them from dogs, wolves, and foxes.
Hyenas also differ from canines in social structures and behaviors. Spotted hyena clans are matriarchal, with females dominant and often larger than males. Canine packs, conversely, exhibit more patriarchal or egalitarian hierarchies. Hyenas mark territories using anal scent glands, a trait of other feliforms, not canids. Their bone-crushing capabilities and digestive systems are also more specialized for consuming carrion and bone than most canines.
Introducing the Hyaenidae Family
The Hyaenidae family comprises four extant species: the spotted hyena, striped hyena, brown hyena, and the aardwolf. These animals are found across Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, inhabiting diverse environments from grasslands to semi-deserts. Hyenas are known for their powerful jaws and specialized teeth, enabling them to crush and digest bones, making them efficient scavengers and predators.
Their ecological role as both hunters and scavengers contributes to ecosystem health by consuming carcasses other carnivores cannot fully utilize. The aardwolf, a smaller member, specializes in consuming insects, particularly termites, demonstrating dietary diversity. Their distinct biology and behavior highlight their unique evolutionary path, setting them apart from feline and canine lineages.