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SPECIES PROFILE
Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)
Crocuta
IUCN STATUS
Least Concern
CONSERVATION STATUS
Least Concern
CLASS
Mammalia
GEOGRAPHICAL RANGE
Sub-Saharan Africa
DIET
Omnivorous
HABITAT
Savannas, grasslands, woodlands
🔬 Classification
PHYLUM
Chordata
CLASS
Mammalia
ORDER
Carnivora
FAMILY
Hyaenidae
GENUS
Crocuta
📋 Description
SIZE
1.2-1.8 m (body), 50-80 kg
COLORATION
Sandy brown with dark spots; sloping back
ADAPTATIONS
Powerful jaws (crush bones); endurance for scavenging
🌿 Ecology
HABITAT
Savannas, grasslands, woodlands
DIET
Omnivorous
GEOGRAPHIC RANGE
Sub-Saharan Africa
REPRODUCTION
Gestation 110 days, 1-3 cubs; cubs in dens
DIET DETAILS
Carrion, antelope, small prey; scavenges
⚠️ Threats & Conservation
PRIMARY THREATS
Habitat loss, persecution
💡 Interesting Facts
1
Bone Crushers: Hyenas have jaws strong enough to crush bones (up to 1,000 psi), allowing them to access marrow that other predators can't, making them vital recyclers in ecosystems. This ability reduces waste and sustains them in lean times.
2
Matriarchal Society: Spotted hyenas live in clans dominated by females, who are larger and more aggressive than males, a rare reversal of typical mammalian gender roles. This social structure ensures females control food and breeding, shaping clan dynamics.
🔭 Sighting Guide
📍 BEST PLACES TO SIGHT
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Ngorongoro CA, Tanzania
Kruger National Park, South Africa
🗓️ BEST TIME TO SIGHT
June-October: Dry season increases hyena activity around waterholes and carcasses.
🎯 SIGHTING TIPS
Join night drives with spotlights to see hyena clans scavenging or hunting.
