19 Secret Facts about Spotted Hyenas

Spotted hyenas are some of the most fascinating and misunderstood predators in the animal kingdom. Known for their powerful bite force, matriarchal society, and unique anatomy, these carnivores are far more than just scavengers. They are expert hunter, highly intelligent, and capable of complex social interactions. From their laugh-like communication to their extreme endurance, spotted hyenas dominate the African savannah in ways few animals can. Their long lifespan, strong stomach, and ancient evolutionary history make them one of the most successful predators on the planet. Let’s dive into the incredible world of these resilient and remarkable creatures!

01. Strongest Bite Force of Any Mammal Carnivore

Spotted hyenas have one of the strongest bite forces of any mammal, up to 1,100 pounds per square inch. Their powerful jaws can crush bones with ease, allowing them to access the nutrient-rich marrow that other predators often leave behind.

02. Matriarchal Society—Females Rule the Pack

Unlike most predators, spotted hyena clans are led by dominant females. This is the opposite of most mammal species. Female spotted hyenas have higher levels of testosterone than males, which contributes to their larger size and more aggressive behavior. Even the lowest-ranking female outranks the highest-ranking male! 

03. Female Hyenas Have penis?

Female spotted hyenas have an enlarged clitoris that resembles a penis, through which they urinate, copulate, and give birth. This unique anatomical feature has led to many myths and misconceptions about hyenas throughout history.

04. Not Just Scavengers—Expert Hunters

Though often called scavengers, spotted hyenas are actually incredible hunters, capable of taking down large prey like wildebeests, zebras, and buffalo. They hunt in coordinated packs and are successful in up to 75% of their hunts, often outcompeting lions in the process.

05. Laughing Hyenas—Their Calls Have Meaning

The famous “laugh” of a spotted hyena isn’t just random noise—it’s a form of complex communication. Each laugh or giggle conveys different messages, including distress, excitement, or submission to other hyenas. 

06. Extreme Endurance—They Can Run for Miles

Spotted hyenas are built for endurance and can chase prey for long distances at speeds of up to 37 mph without getting tired. 

07. Highly Intelligent—Smarter Than You Think

Spotted hyenas have a large brain relative to their body size, and studies show that spotted hyenas are highly intelligent animals with problem-solving skills that rival primates. They can use cooperation and strategy to outwit other predators and even solve puzzles in laboratory studies.

They have demonstrated problem-solving skills and complex social behaviors in studies.5 They can recognize individual clan members and remember past interactions.

08. Weird Births—One of the Most Difficult in the Animal Kingdom

Female spotted hyenas give birth through a pseudo-penis, a unique trait in the animal world. This makes birth extremely difficult, with up to 60% of hyena cubs dying at birth due to complications. 

09. They Live for a Long Time

In the wild, spotted hyenas can live up to 20–25 years, making them one of the longest-living carnivores on the African savannah.

10. They Have a Stomach of Steel

Spotted hyenas can eat and digest almost anything, including bones, hooves, and even rotten meat. Their powerful stomach acid helps break down these tough materials without making them sick. This adaptability makes them successful survivors in various habitats.

11. One of Africa’s Most Widespread Predators

Spotted hyenas are found in a variety of habitats, from open savannahs to forests and even semi-desert regions. They are among Africa’s most successful carnivores! 

12. Larger Clans for Survival

Spotted hyenas live in large clans of up to 80 individuals, one of the most complex social structures in the animal kingdom. This allows them to dominate other predators, such as lions and leopards, when competing for food.

13. Night Vision Masters

Hyenas are predominantly nocturnal hunters, equipped with exceptional night vision that allows them to see and hunt effectively in the dark.

14. Lions vs. Hyenas Rivalry 

Lions and spotted hyenas are mortal enemies, often fighting over territory and food. While lions are larger and stronger, hyenas can often outnumber and overpower them, especially in clans.

15. Unique Spot Patterns

Just like human fingerprints, each spotted hyena has a **unique coat pattern** of spots that can be used to identify individuals.

16. Smelly Communication

Hyenas use their anal scent glands to mark territory and communicate with others. These "pastes" leave a long-lasting smell that other hyenas can interpret, even in their absence.

17. They’re Ancient Survivors 

Spotted hyenas have roamed the Earth for around 11 million years, surviving significant environmental changes and evolving into one of the savannah’s most formidable predators.

18. Motherhood Champions

Female hyenas are dedicated mothers, providing rich milk to their cubs for up to 18 months, the longest lactation period of any carnivore. Hyena milk is so nutritious that cubs grow quickly, even without eating solid food.

19. Cubs are born with their eyes open and teeth

Spotted hyena cubs are born relatively developed, with their eyes open and small teeth already present. This allows them to compete for resources within the clan from a young age.

Conclusion 

Spotted hyenas are often misunderstood, but these fascinating traits showcase their intelligence, adaptability, and vital role in the ecosystem. They're truly one of the most incredible animals in the wild!