How to Identify a Hyena

The Hyena is One of the Best Scavengers on Earth

The carnivorous hyena is widely considered to be the scavenger of the African plains. This is largely due to the fact that the hyena will dine on anything dead or alive. This opportunistic feeder is readily identified if you know what to look for. While the hyena is often thought of as a dog, it is actually more closely related to the cat family. This and other misconceptions can lead to a misunderstanding of the hyena and its habits.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Know the hyena's range and where they live. The hyena is found in Africa, and parts of Asia and the Middle East. They are very adaptable, and can be found in a number of different living environments such as the plains, grasslands and savannas.

2. Notice that where you find one hyena, there are bound to be many more. Hyenas are social animals and travel in clans. They are generally territorial, and will constantly roam in search of food.

3. Listen to the hyena laugh. Though not actually laughing, a hyena will emit a high pitched cackle when excited or riled. This communication is thought to be a form of communication with the rest of the hyena's clan.

4. Observe the short, course hair of the hyena. The hyena has a coat that is generally colored tan and brown. The coat is covered with assorted spots colored black or brown. Occasionally, a hyena will have spots or flecks of red throughout their coats. Generally, the undercoat of the hyena is white to off white in color.

5. Notice that the hyena has a dog like face, with long ears and a black nose. The mouth is extremely powerful with long, sharp teeth that are strong enough to chew bone in two. The head is supported by strong, sloping shoulders that leave the hyena looking as though it is squatting most of the time.

6. Realize that the hyena is a powerfully built predator at an average weight of about 125 pounds. The hyena has been known to get up to around 200 pounds, and is a very capable hunter. These predators have been known to take down a full grown buffalo with their strong countenance and enough numbers.

Tips & Warnings

• Hyenas are opportunistic feeders, so always keep a safe viewing distance.

• Use binoculars to view the hyena at a safe distance.

• Never approach a hyena.

• Never attempt to feed a hyena.

• Always travel with a Safety Guide when in the hyena's range.