Spotted Hyena

The spotted hyena (or Crocuta crocuta), also known as the laughing hyena, is native to sub-Saharan Africa. They are generalist predators that can live in most environments – although they are not found in rainforests or deserts – and their strong forelimbs, well-muscled neck, and comparatively weaker hind limbs give them a distinctive appearance. Their head is broad with a wide snout and they have sandy fur with black spots, as well as a mane down their neck to their mid back. Adult spotted hyenas stand 70cm to 92cm tall at the shoulder, with females being larger and also heavier than males. On average, males weigh 40kg to 55kg, while females weigh 44kg to 64kg.

Spotted hyenas are of Least Concern, but are affected by human-wildlife conflict as populations expand. Their reputation as scavengers has long subjected them to cultural stigma, with many communities viewing them as pests or symbols of witchcraft. As human settlements expand and fragment natural hyena habitats, hyenas often turn to preying on domestic animals and, in turn, are killed through poisoning, trapping or shooting by farmers attempting to protect their livestock. In some regions, parts of hyenas are also trafficked for traditional medicine and rituals. Community outreach programs aim to dispel myths and emphasise the ecological importance of hyenas as scavengers and disease controllers that help maintain healthy ecosystems. Non-lethal conflict mitigation techniques such as improved livestock enclosures, compensation schemes, and predator-proof fencing, have proven effective in parts of Kenya and Tanzania. Additionally, monitoring programmes improve understanding of hyena social structures, movements, and tolerance of human-altered landscapes, informing more targeted management.