Description
The spotted hyena is the largest of the three hyena species with large well developed shoulders and powerful forequarters that slope down to relatively undeveloped hindquarters. In comparison to the striped hyena, the spotted hyena has a larger but narrower sagittal crest and for its size it has one of the most powerfully built skulls for a carnivore. The spotted hyena is regarded as the second largest carnivore in Africa preceded by the Lion. They have strong jaws and teeth which are well designed for crushing large bones.
Their fur varies with age and unlike the striped and brown hyena is shorter and spotted rather than striped. The spotted hyena also lacks the well defined mane of the striped and brown hyena. The fur is generally pale greyish-brown or yellowish-brown with dark irregular spots on the flanks, legs and hindquarter which tend to fade with age.
Hunting and clan structure: Hyenas are accomplished hunters as well as scavengers. They are known to hunt a variety of prey including wildebeest and zebras and often hunt in packs. They live together highly social clans that occupy a territory which are dominated by the larger and more aggressive alpha females.
The clan structure exhibits a strict hierarchy with the highest ranking males falling below the lowest ranking females. This matriarchal society is maintained by the dominant female exerting authority over lower ranking females with aggression. Females remain with the clan for life whilst the males leave the clan at approximately 2.5 years old to join a new clan.
Communication: Spotted hyenas are highly intelligent and have an extensive vocal range. They communicate with other clan members with whoops, grunts, yells, growls and giggles. The giggles closely resemble a manic laugh hence the name ‘laughing hyaena’.
Spotted hyenas have been described as ‘exceedingly cunning, deceptive and suspicious’. They have been known to use warning calls in order to scare off other hyenas to feed in peace. As a result of these character traits they are often misunderstood and like other hyenas they are considered pests and hunted.
