The African savanna is home to an intense rivalry between two of its formidable predators: the spotted hyena and the lion. These species frequently interact, sharing overlapping territories and pursuing similar prey. Their relationship is characterized by a struggle for resources and dominance, shaping the ecological landscape.
The Dynamics of Lion-Hyena Interactions
Spotted hyenas and lions compete frequently over essential resources like prey, territory, and water. Both species target medium to large ungulates, including wildebeest, zebra, and various antelope species, leading to significant dietary overlap. This shared diet often results in direct confrontations, particularly at kill sites.
While both are apex predators, lions typically assert dominance at a kill, often displacing hyenas. Adult male lions consistently dominate hyenas, regardless of the number of hyenas present. However, the outcome of these interactions is heavily influenced by group size.
A large hyena clan can challenge and even overwhelm smaller lion prides, especially those consisting mainly of lionesses. Hyenas may succeed in holding their ground or taking over a kill if they outnumber lionesses by a significant margin, sometimes requiring six times more members. Hyenas also employ coordinated “mobbing” behavior, approaching lions as a tight-knit group while vocalizing loudly, to drive them away from food.
Do Hyenas Hunt and Kill Lions?
Hyenas rarely hunt and kill healthy adult lions. Lions are considerably larger and stronger than hyenas, with male lions capable of killing a hyena with a single powerful paw strike.
However, hyenas do target vulnerable lions. They prey on very young, unattended lion cubs. Additionally, hyenas may attack and kill severely injured, sick, or elderly lions that are compromised. While rare, a very large and determined clan of hyenas, sometimes numbering 20 to 30 individuals, could potentially overpower a lone adult lion, though this scenario often comes with considerable risk to the hyenas.
When Hyenas Consume Lion Remains
Hyenas are highly opportunistic feeders and readily consume lion remains. This includes scavenging on carcasses of lions that have died from natural causes, injuries, or have been killed by other animals, including other lions. Their powerful jaws are capable of crushing bones, allowing them to consume nearly an entire carcass.
While lions rarely consume hyenas, hyenas are less selective and will feed on lion meat. They might also opportunistically consume lion cubs they have killed. This scavenging behavior demonstrates their adaptability and efficiency in processing available food sources.