Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)

News: A new study by the University of Sheffield found that spotted hyenas in Ethiopia’s Mekelle city reduce waste, carbon emissions, and sanitation risks.

About Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)

• The spotted hyena is the largest living member of the Hyaenidae family.
• It is a highly adaptable carnivore.
• Scientific Name: The scientific name of the spotted hyena is Crocuta crocuta.
• Habitat: Spotted hyenas live in savannahs, grasslands, woodlands, semi-deserts, and forest edges.
• Distribution: The species is native to sub-Saharan Africa and is one of the most common large carnivores in Africa.
• Characteristics
  • Body structure: The animal has a strong neck and forequarters, a rounded rump, a wide head with a blunt muzzle, and rounded ears.
  • Coat and build: It has short fur with irregular black spots and a robust body with longer forelimbs than hind limbs.
  • Size and weight: Adults usually weigh about 40–65 kg and have a body length of about 95–165 cm.
  • Clan system: Spotted hyenas live in large clans that can contain up to 80 individuals.
  • Matriarchal society: Females are larger and dominate males in the social hierarchy.
  • Cooperative behaviour: Clan members often hunt, eat, and rest together.
  • Vocalisation: The species is commonly known as the “laughing hyena” because of its distinctive vocal sounds.
• Ecological Role: It helps regulate herbivore populations in ecosystems.
  • It consumes carrion and organic waste, reducing disease risk and recycling nutrients.
• IUCN Status: Least Concern

Note

• Presence of Hyena family in India: The spotted hyena is not found in India.
• Instead the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), a related species, occurs in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka.
• Protection Status:
  • Near Threatened by the IUCN
  • Schedule III of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972