Appearance
How do African Hyenas look?
Hyenas have a rugged, no-nonsense look. Their sloping backs, muscular shoulders, and powerful jaws give them a tough appearance—and for good reason. These animals are built to crush bones and digest almost anything.
Spotted hyenas—the most common type in Africa—have a sandy or greyish coat covered in dark spots, round ears, and a thick neck. They’re bigger than most people think, standing up to 80 cm tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 80 kg. Don’t be fooled by their odd walk or “laughing” sounds—hyenas are skilled hunters and extremely intelligent.
Life Span
12 – 15 years
Top Speed
Around 60 km/h
Bite Force
Over 1,000 PSI
Height
75 to 85 cm
IUCN Status
Least Concern
Diet and Feeding Habits
What do African Hyenas eat?
Hyenas aren’t just scavengers—they’re excellent hunters, especially spotted hyenas. They go after wildebeests, zebras, antelope, and even buffalos in large groups. That said, they do clean up a lot of leftovers too, eating bones, hooves, and everything in between.
Their digestion is super-efficient, which makes them nature’s ultimate cleanup crew. Brown and striped hyenas rely more on scavenging, while spotted hyenas do both—hunt and scavenge, depending on the situation.
More Than Just a Laugh
The role of hyenas in African culture and ecosystems
Hyenas have a complicated image in African culture. In many traditions, they symbolize mischief, boldness, or even the supernatural. Some stories paint them as tricksters, others as wise survivors. Either way, they’re always unforgettable.
Ecologically, hyenas play a major role in keeping the wild clean. By eating carcasses and bones that other predators leave behind, they help prevent the spread of disease and keep ecosystems in balance.
Wild and Weird
Fun facts about African Hyenas
- Hyenas “laugh”—but it’s really a form of vocal communication used when excited, nervous, or fighting over food.
- Female spotted hyenas are bigger and more dominant than the males. In fact, they lead the clan.
- A hyena’s bite is one of the strongest in the animal kingdom—strong enough to crush elephant bones.
- Spotted hyenas live in complex clans that can have up to 80 members.
- Their poop is often white, thanks to all the calcium they get from eating bones.
Where to Spot Hyenas in the Wild
Top National Parks to See African Hyenas
If you’re hoping to see hyenas on safari, you’re in luck—they’re widespread across Africa. Here are some of the best places:
- Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Great for spotting spotted hyenas, especially near wildebeest herds during migration.
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Home to huge hyena clans that you’ll often see during early morning or night drives.
- Kruger National Park, South Africa: A top spot for both day and night sightings. Spotted hyenas are quite active here.
- Etosha National Park, Namibia: Known for excellent sightings, especially around waterholes during dry season.
- Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe: Large hyena populations, often heard calling at night around campsites.
Tip: Hyenas are mostly active at night, so night safaris and early mornings offer the best chance to hear their eerie calls and see them on the move.
Types of Hyenas in Africa
Meet the three wild characters of the African bush. Africa is home to three unique hyena species, each with its own style and survival game.
Spotted Hyena
Striped Hyena
Brown Hyena
Key Differences Between African Hyenas
| Feature | Spotted Hyena | Striped Hyena | Brown Hyena |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Crocuta crocuta | Hyaena hyaena | Parahyaena brunnea |
| Appearance | Sandy to grey coat with dark spots, rounded ears, thick neck | Pale grey coat with dark vertical stripes, pointed ears, bushy tail | Long shaggy dark-brown fur, striped legs, large mane |
| Size | Largest of the three – up to 86 kg (190 lbs) | Medium – up to 55 kg (121 lbs) | Medium – up to 72 kg (160 lbs) |
| Social Behavior | Very social – lives in large clans of up to 80 | Mostly solitary or found in pairs | Lives in small clans, usually 4–15 members |
| Vocalization | Known for the famous “laugh” or giggle sound | Quiet – growls, howls, and chattering | Grunts and growls, less vocal overall |
| Habitat | Widespread across savannahs and grasslands | Prefers dry scrub, rocky deserts, and open woodlands | Found in deserts and semi-arid areas, especially southern Africa |
| Diet | Hunts and scavenges – strong hunter | Mostly scavenger – rarely hunts | Primarily scavenger – feeds on carcasses and small animals |
| Dominance | Matriarchal – females are bigger and dominant | No strong female dominance | Less hierarchical than spotted hyenas |
| Range in Africa | Sub-Saharan Africa | Northern & eastern Africa, scattered in the south | Southern Africa (Namibia, Botswana, parts of Zimbabwe and SA) |
Want to see hyenas and more incredible wildlife up close? Book your safari adventure today and explore Africa’s wild side!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hyenas scavengers or hunters?
Both! Spotted hyenas are excellent hunters—up to 70% of their food comes from hunting. The striped and brown hyenas scavenge more often.
Do hyenas really laugh?
Yes, especially spotted hyenas. Their “laugh” is a high-pitched sound used for communication, not because they’re amused.
Are hyenas part of the dog or cat family?
Neither! Hyenas belong to their own family—Hyaenidae. They’re more closely related to mongooses than dogs or cats.
Do hyenas live in groups?
Spotted hyenas live in large groups called clans, often led by dominant females. Striped and brown hyenas are more solitary.