Hyenas are fascinating carnivores inhabiting diverse landscapes across Africa and parts of Asia. Beyond their well-known traits, hyenas possess remarkable athletic capabilities, particularly concerning their speed. Understanding their swiftness provides insight into their ecological role and survival strategies in competitive environments.
Top Speeds of Hyenas
Among the four hyena species, the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is the fastest, capable of reaching speeds of at least 60 kilometers per hour (37 mph). The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is not as swift, with some data indicating a top speed of around 50 km/h (31 mph). Brown hyenas (Parahyaena brunnea) can also achieve speeds of approximately 50-64 km/h (31-40 mph), though they are primarily scavengers and do not frequently engage in high-speed pursuits. The aardwolf (Proteles cristatus), the smallest hyena species, is not built for speed, with a top speed around 30-40 km/h (20-25 mph).
How Hyenas Are Built for Speed
Spotted hyenas possess specific physical adaptations that enable their impressive speeds and endurance. Their powerful musculature, particularly in their forelimbs, contributes to their propulsion. While their hind legs are shorter than their front legs, this body structure provides an energy-efficient gait that allows them to cover vast distances. They also have a proportionately large heart, comprising nearly 1% of their body weight, which supports their stamina during prolonged chases. Their non-retractable claws provide traction, aiding in acceleration and maintaining grip on various terrains.
Speed in Hunting and Survival
Hyenas, especially spotted hyenas, effectively utilize their speed and endurance in their hunting strategies. They are endurance hunters, often pursuing prey over long distances to wear down their targets. Spotted hyenas can maintain speeds of 40-50 km/h for several kilometers after an initial sprint. This persistence allows them to exhaust animals like wildebeest and zebra, which they then capture. Beyond hunting, speed also aids hyenas in survival, allowing them to escape larger predators or other threats in their environment.
Correcting Misconceptions About Hyena Speed
A common misconception portrays hyenas as primarily scavengers, but they are highly effective hunters. Spotted hyenas obtain a significant portion of their diet, ranging from 50% to over 90%, from their own kills. Their speed and endurance are critical to this predatory lifestyle, allowing them to chase down prey that other carnivores might not pursue. While they do scavenge opportunistically, their athletic capabilities demonstrate their prowess as active predators rather than mere consumers of carrion.