Hyenas inhabit various ecosystems across Africa and parts of Asia, known for their array of vocalizations. While often associated with a distinctive “laugh,” their soundscape is complex, encompassing a wide range of calls for communication within their social structures. These animals function as both skilled predators and opportunistic scavengers, and their vocal abilities play a role in their daily lives.
The Iconic Cackle
The sound commonly referred to as a “laugh” or cackle is primarily produced by spotted hyenas, the largest of the four hyena species. This high-pitched vocalization is not an expression of amusement, as human laughter is. Instead, it signals excitement, frustration, or even submission within the clan. Hyenas often produce this cackle when competing for food at a kill site, indicating agitation or stress, especially when higher-ranking individuals are present. The pitch and variability of a hyena’s cackle can also convey information about its age, identity, and social status, with dominant animals often emitting a more steady call compared to the more variable cackles of subordinate individuals.
A Diverse Vocal Repertoire
Beyond the cackle, hyenas possess a broad vocal repertoire, utilizing up to 14 different sounds. One prominent vocalization is the “whoop,” a loud, far-carrying call that can travel up to five kilometers. These whoops are unique to each individual, allowing for individual recognition over long distances.
Hyenas also produce growls, used in aggressive encounters, whether within their clan or during confrontations with rival predators. Whimpers indicate submission or distress, and groans are sometimes used by mothers to call cubs from their dens or during social interactions. Screams signal extreme pain or distress, such as during fights or when injured. This diverse range of sounds highlights the intricate communication system hyenas employ.
The Purpose of Hyena Sounds
Hyena vocalizations serve various biological and social functions, facilitating the complex dynamics of their clans. Whoops are crucial for long-distance communication, helping scattered clan members locate each other, coordinate movements, and defend territory boundaries or food resources. These calls also advertise an individual’s presence and can be used by males seeking to join new clans.
Vocalizations are integral to coordinating hunts, where whoops and grunts direct group movements and signal key actions, improving hunting efficiency. Within the clan, different calls aid in establishing and maintaining social hierarchies, with the pitch and frequency of sounds like the cackle conveying information about an individual’s dominance or submission. This communication helps manage group dynamics, reinforce social bonds, and ensure cooperation in activities like defending against rivals or sharing food.