Hyenas are often perceived as formidable animals. This article provides a clear comparison of hyena size relative to humans, detailing the dimensions of various hyena species to offer a comprehensive understanding of their true scale.
Hyena Species and Their Physical Attributes
The hyena family comprises four distinct species. The spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is the largest and most widely recognized. These powerful carnivores typically stand between 70 to 92 centimeters (27.6 to 36.2 inches) at the shoulder and measure 95 to 165 centimeters (37.4 to 65.3 inches) in body length, excluding the tail. Spotted hyenas weigh 40 to 86 kilograms (88 to 190 pounds), with females generally larger than males.
The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is smaller than its spotted cousin, possessing a more slender build. Their shoulder height ranges from 60 to 80 centimeters (24 to 31 inches), while their body length extends from 85 to 130 centimeters (33 to 51 inches), and they typically weigh between 22 to 55 kilograms (49 to 121 pounds). Brown hyenas (Parahyaena brunnea) are similar in size to striped hyenas but possess a shaggier coat. They reach a shoulder height of 71 to 88 centimeters (28 to 35 inches) and a body length of 100 to 160 centimeters (39.4 to 63 inches). Brown hyenas weigh between 38 to 47 kilograms (84 to 104 pounds), with little size difference between sexes.
The smallest member of the family is the aardwolf (Proteles cristata), which primarily consumes insects. Aardwolves stand 41 to 51 centimeters (16 to 20 inches) at the shoulder. Their body length ranges from 55 to 80 centimeters (21.6 to 31.5 inches), and they typically weigh 8 to 12 kilograms (18 to 26.5 pounds).
Comparing Hyena Stature to Human Proportions
An average adult human male stands 171 centimeters (5 feet 7.5 inches) tall, and an average adult human female is 159 centimeters (5 feet 3 inches) tall. The global average weight for an adult human is 61 kilograms (134 pounds). These figures serve as a baseline for understanding the relative size of hyenas.
A spotted hyena, the largest hyena species, has a shoulder height up to 92 centimeters, roughly equivalent to a human’s waist or hip level. While its body length of up to 165 centimeters is comparable to an average human’s height, this measurement is horizontal, from nose to tail base. Their weight range of 40 to 86 kilograms means a large spotted hyena can weigh more than an average adult human.
Striped and brown hyenas are noticeably smaller than humans. Their shoulder heights of 60 to 88 centimeters place their backs well below an adult human’s waist. Their body lengths, ranging from 85 to 160 centimeters, are shorter or similar to a human’s height, measured horizontally. Weighing 22 to 55 kilograms for striped hyenas and 38 to 47 kilograms for brown hyenas, they are generally lighter than an average adult human. The aardwolf, 41 to 51 centimeters tall and weighing 8 to 12 kilograms, is comparable in size to a medium-sized dog, reaching only a human’s knee.
Beyond Measurements: Factors Influencing Perceived Size
Several physical attributes contribute to hyenas often appearing larger and more imposing than their statistics might suggest. Spotted hyenas, for instance, possess a robust and muscular build, particularly around their neck and shoulders. This powerful musculature, coupled with their distinctive sloping back where the forelegs are longer than the hind legs, creates an impression of significant strength and bulk.
Their large, broad head and powerful jaws, capable of crushing bone, also contribute to their formidable appearance. Their thick, strong necks support this powerful bite, adding to their intimidating silhouette. The shaggy fur of brown and striped hyenas, especially the erectile mane along their back, can also make them appear larger during displays. These features create a powerful visual impact that can lead to an overestimation of their actual size compared to humans.