Interesting facts About Hyenas

The sole mentioning of hyenas makes people think of some cruel and furious dogs, running over African savannahs is search of dead animals. Indeed, diet comprised of carrion mainly is the most popular thing humans know about these animals. However, there are some more interesting and exciting facts discovered while studying hyenas, which makes this species more and more newsworthy. 1. For many decades hyenas were referred to as some species of dogs. In sober fact, there are many similar things in their behavior and appearance that put hyenas on the line with dogs. In particular, the way hyenas greet each other is the closest thing to dogs’ behavior.2. Hyenas were popular even amongst ancient Egyptians, who, as we know, were good at camel breeding and domestication of animals. Hyenas were no exception. They also were domesticated, but not as pack animals or guards, but for meat.3. As it was mentioned, furiousness of hyenas’ behavior is “a trademark” of the species. However, within the pride females are much more aggressive, as the level of testosterone in their body is three times higher.  Probably, these are the only mammals that can boast of females’ superiority.4. Carrion is a main meal of spotted hyenas. However, it is no object for them not to steal some meat from other animal species.  This habit cannot but irritate and displease other flesh eating species that share an area with hyenas.5. In this context, it is appropriate to consider the main enemies of the species. Hyenas are likely to be the prey of leopards, lions, crocodiles and even hunting dogs they are compared to. 6. Spotted hyenas can digest any kind of food – skins, meat and even bones, as their alimentary systems is pretty adapted. Besides, they have strong jaws regardless small sizes.7. The only way hyenas can avoid clashes with other predators is hunting at nighttime. Hyenas usually gather in prides to both chase their prey and to scare their “competitors”.8. Female domination is obvious since early years. They outrange male hyenas in weight, the age of sexual maturity and even in quantity within pride, especially if it is spotted hyenas.9. As no other animal species, hyenas are born with already opened eyes. Young offspring stay in animas’ den for one year, and then it is ready to go on a hunt with its mother.10. Hyenas are scavengers.