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Hyena Superpowers

Hyenas have one of the most powerful bites in the animal kingdom, capable of crushing bones to access the nutritious marrow inside. They can digest skin, bones, and even hooves, leaving almost nothing of their prey behind.

Fascinating Facts
Two spotted hyenas in the grass.
  • Although they look more like dogs, hyenas belong to the suborder Feliformia, making them closer relatives to cats, mongoose, and meerkats than to dogs.
  • Hyena clans are female-dominated. Females are larger, more aggressive, and hold higher-ranking positions than males in the social hierarchy.
  • Hyenas live in groups called clans, with up to 80 individuals.
  • Hyenas are skilled hunters and can take down prey as large as wildebeests. In some species, up to 95% of their diet comes from hunting. Spotted hyenas in particular are actually quite good at hunting.
  • Hyenas produce a wide range of sounds, including their famous “laugh,” which signals excitement or nervousness and conveys social information.
  • Hyenas have one of the most powerful bites in the animal kingdom, capable of crushing bones to access the nutritious marrow inside.
  • Efficient Digestive System: They can digest skin, bones, and even hooves, leaving almost nothing of their prey behind.
  • Hyenas have demonstrated problem-solving skills comparable to primates.
  • Hyenas are primarily nocturnal, and their sharp night vision helps them hunt in the dark.
  • While hyenas are carnivores and carrion-eaters, and they have been known to steal food from other predators, they are no more likely than any other mammal to attack a human.
Why They Are Important to the Planet
  • Hyenas play a crucial role in ecosystems by keeping prey populations and preventing overgrazing.
  • In consuming carrion, they help prevent the spread of disease, especially anthrax and rabies.
  • When they excrete waste, it returns essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus to the soil, enriching the environment for plants.
  • Hyenas often target sick, weak, or injured animals. This strengthens prey populations by removing individuals less likely to survive and reproduce, promoting healthier gene pools.
  • They compete with other carnivores like lions, leopards, and wild dogs. This maintains a balance of power among predators and prevents any single species from dominating the ecosystem.
  • By breaking down large carcasses into smaller pieces, hyenas make it easier for smaller scavengers like vultures and jackals to access food they might otherwise miss.
  • Changes in hyena populations can indicate shifts in ecosystem health, making them valuable for conservation monitoring.
Why We Should Love These Animals
Close-up of a young hyena's face.
Two spotted hyenas standing together.
Yawning hyena with open mouth.
Two adorable spotted hyena cubs.
  • Their ability to survive in various environments showcases their resilience and resourcefulness.
  • They invest more energy in their babies than any other carnivore.
  • Hyena cubs are some of the cutest and most playful mammals in the entire animal kingdom.
  • When it comes to family support, all mothers within a clan collectively nurse and protect the cubs. All members will cooperatively bring food from a hunt or scavenge to share with the little ones.
Videos and Activities

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Activity

Create artwork depicting a day in the life of a hyena. This can include drawing, painting, or even a short comic strip. Share it with SAFE Worldwide.

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