Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)

Overview
Often misunderstood, the spotted hyena is one of Africa’s most skilled and successful predators. Known for its eerie “laugh” and sloping posture, it thrives in savannas, open plains, and semi-arid regions across central and northern South Africa, including Kruger and Kalahari Gemsbok National Parks.

Powerful Hunters & Social Carnivores
Despite their reputation as scavengers, spotted hyenas are efficient hunters—capable of chasing prey at speeds up to 60 km/h. They hunt in coordinated clans and can take down large prey like buffalo, eland, and gemsbok. However, they will also scavenge and are known to steal kills from lions.

Matriarchal & Complex Social Structure
Spotted hyenas live in large, female-led clans. Females are larger than males, weighing up to 70 kg. Cubs are raised in communal dens and nurse for 12–16 months. Males play no parenting role and hold lower social ranks.

Distinctive Appearance
With yellow coats, dark spots, and rounded ears, spotted hyenas are easily recognizable. Their powerful forequarters and large heads give them impressive strength for crushing bones and tearing through carcasses.

Habitat & Behaviour
These nocturnal animals rest in dens during the day—often old aardvark burrows—and are active at night. Socially dynamic, they frequently form and dissolve clans, maintaining complex relationships within and between groups.

Spotted hyenas are not just scavengers—they are dominant, intelligent, and vital to Africa’s ecosystem.