hyena

Hyena refers to four species of carnivoran mammals in the family Hyaenidae. Native to Africa and parts of Asia, hyenas inhabit a range of environments from savannas and woodlands to deserts and scrubland. They are known for stout bodies, strong jaws capable of crushing bone, and an unusually versatile diet that includes meat, carrion, and sometimes insects. Although commonly portrayed as scavengers, several species hunt and cache food in packs or clans.

There are four extant species: the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta); the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena); the brown hyena (Parahyaena brunnea); and the aardwolf (Proteles cristatus). Spotted hyenas are widespread across Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Middle East. Striped hyenas occupy Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. Brown hyenas are found in southern and eastern Africa. Aardwolves inhabit eastern and southern Africa, where they primarily feed on insects.

All hyenas have a stocky build, a broad head, rounded ears, and a short tail. They are generally heavier and more robust than other caniforms, with powerful jaws that can crush bone. Coat patterns vary by species: spotted, striped, brown, or pale with dark stripes in aardwolves. Size ranges from the relatively small striped hyena to the large spotted hyena; body proportions emphasize forelimbs and neck strength.

Spotted hyenas are social, living in large matriarchal clans in which females are larger and socially dominant. They communicate with a wide repertoire of vocalizations, including a distinctive giggling or laughing sound. Other hyena species tend to be more solitary or live in smaller groupings, and social organization is less pronounced. Hyenas mark territories with scent and engage in cooperative hunting or scavenging when conditions permit.

Dietaries vary by species. Spotted hyenas are opportunistic predators and frequent scavengers, capable of taking down large ungulates and competing with lions. Aardwolves specialize in termites and other insects. Striped and brown hyenas scavenge widely and may hunt smaller prey. Reproduction occurs in various seasons; in spotted hyenas, females give birth to litters after denning, and cubs rely on the complex social dynamics of the clan for survival.