Hyenas are often misunderstood creatures, frequently depicted as mere scavengers with a distinctive laugh. These mammals hold a unique place in the animal kingdom, distinct from both the cat and dog families, despite some superficial resemblances. Their intriguing behaviors and adaptations make them subjects of considerable scientific interest, revealing a complexity that belies common perceptions.
The Hyena Family Tree
The family Hyaenidae comprises four distinct species: the spotted hyena, striped hyena, brown hyena, and the aardwolf. While they might appear dog-like, hyenas are actually classified within the suborder Feliformia, making them more closely related to felines and viverrids (like civets and mongooses). This evolutionary lineage diverged approximately 29.2 million years ago.
The Spotted Hyena
The spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is the largest and most widely recognized species, primarily inhabiting sub-Saharan Africa. These hyenas exhibit a complex matriarchal social structure, living in large groups called clans that can number over 100 individuals. Females are larger and dominate males, with social rank inherited from mothers.
Their diverse vocalizations include the well-known “whooping” sound, which can carry for several kilometers. Spotted hyenas are efficient predators, often taking down prey much larger than themselves. They are also adept scavengers, capable of digesting bones and other animal matter that most other carnivores leave behind.
The Striped Hyena
The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is found across a broad geographic range, from North Africa to the Indian subcontinent. Unlike their spotted relatives, striped hyenas are more solitary, though they can form small groups. These nocturnal animals are primarily scavengers. Their powerful jaws allow them to crush bones effectively.
Their omnivorous diet also includes insects, small animals, fruits, and human refuse. The striped hyena is distinguished by its characteristic striped coat and a prominent mane that can be erected to make the animal appear larger when threatened. They are less vocal than spotted hyenas, emitting growls or screeches only when seriously threatened.
The Brown Hyena
The brown hyena (Parahyaena brunnea), also known as the “strandwolf,” is found in southern Africa, particularly in the Kalahari Desert and coastal regions. This species is characterized by its shaggy, dark brown fur, pointed ears, and a distinctive cream-colored ruff around its neck. They have a sloping back, with their front legs appearing longer than their hind legs.
Brown hyenas are scavengers, consuming carrion, insects, fruits, and small vertebrates. While they forage alone, brown hyenas live in social clans of up to 20 individuals, sharing a communal den and cooperating to defend their territory. They are primarily nocturnal, seeking refuge during the day in dens or thick vegetation.
The Aardwolf
The aardwolf (Proteles cristata) is the smallest and most unique member of the hyena family. Despite its name, which means “earth wolf” in Afrikaans, it is a true hyena. Found in eastern and southern Africa, the aardwolf specializes in a diet of termites and their larvae. An aardwolf can consume up to 300,000 termites in a single night using its long, sticky tongue.
Unlike other hyenas, the aardwolf does not hunt large animals and has a less robust skull and teeth adapted for its insectivorous diet. It is a small, nocturnal, and solitary animal, resembling a slender striped hyena with a more pointed muzzle and large, sensitive ears. The aardwolf also possesses a mane of stiff hairs along its back that can be erected when threatened, making it appear larger.