Hyenas, often misunderstood creatures of the African plains, frequently spark questions about their hunting behaviors. A common inquiry revolves around whether these animals hunt in groups or primarily scavenge for food. Exploring the diverse strategies employed by different hyena species reveals a nuanced picture that challenges popular misconceptions.
Hyena Hunting: A Complex Picture
The question of whether hyenas hunt in groups depends on the species. The spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is a formidable predator, known for its ability to hunt in coordinated groups. These social animals live in large communities called clans. Spotted hyenas are highly efficient hunters, obtaining 75% to 95% of their diet from their own kills rather than scavenging.
In contrast, other hyena species exhibit different feeding strategies. The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is primarily a scavenger, consuming carrion and human refuse. While they may occasionally kill small animals, their diet largely consists of meat left behind by other predators, along with fruits and insects. Similarly, the brown hyena (Parahyaena brunnea) is also predominantly a scavenger, feeding on carcasses, insects, eggs, and fruits. The aardwolf (Proteles cristata), the smallest hyena species, stands out as a specialized insectivore, feeding almost exclusively on termites.
The Dynamics of Group Hunting
Spotted hyenas use coordinated tactics when hunting in groups, demonstrating communication. Their hunting success depends on prey size and the number of hyenas involved. Larger groups, often 10 to 25 hyenas, can take down substantial prey like zebras and buffalo. For smaller prey, such as wildebeest, hyenas may hunt in groups of two or three or individually.
These predators can reach speeds up to 60 kilometers per hour and maintain a fast pace over several kilometers. They pursue prey over long distances, sometimes up to 5 kilometers, to exhaust it. Their powerful jaws and teeth are designed for crushing bone, allowing them to process nearly an entire carcass. Vocalizations, such as whoops and grunts, coordinate their movements during a hunt.
Beyond the Hunt: Scavenging and Other Species
While spotted hyenas are effective hunters, they also remain opportunistic scavengers. They consume carrion, using their keen sense of smell to detect carcasses from several kilometers away. This behavior complements their hunting prowess, maximizing their food intake. Their ability to digest bone contributes to their role as efficient ecosystem cleaners.
Other hyena species rely more heavily on scavenging. Brown hyenas cover vast distances in search of carrion and can locate carcasses many kilometers away. Striped hyenas also forage for carrion and human refuse, often at night. The aardwolf, however, differs, primarily feeding on termites by licking them up with its long, sticky tongue, consuming up to 300,000 termites in a single night. This diversity highlights the varied ecological roles within the hyena family.