Hyena Facts

About the hyena

Only four living species exist, each in its own genus, so hyenas rank fifth-smallest among Carnivora families. Even with so few kinds, they play a vital part in most African ecosystems. Their family tree sits closer to felines and viverrids, but convergent evolution gave them a lot in common with canines: both run down prey, grab it with their teeth instead of claws, eat fast and may store food.

Calloused feet with big, blunt claws that do not retract help hyenas run and turn sharply. In other ways they stay catlike, from grooming and scent marking to mating and parenting. People living near hyenas often see them as scary and contemptible. Some cultures say they steal livestock and children or rob graves, and others link them to witchcraft.

Did you know?

• The word hyena comes from the Ancient Greek hýaina.
• Hyenas do not climb trees and hunt by running prey down.
• Some cultures use hyena body parts in traditional medicine.