Creature Feature. Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)

Creature Feature

Spotted Hyena(Crocuta crocuta)

Fast Facts

• Largest of 4 species• Live in large clans

(>80 individuals)• Weigh ~ 90-140 lbs• 2-5 feet tall• 2-4 feet in length• Females are larger than males• Known for their ‘laughter’

Range

Behavior

• Rest and give birth in dens – Rarely dig themselves– Use abandoned lairs of

warthogs• A single den can house several females

and dozens of cubs at once• Spotted hyena societies are more

complex than those of other carnivorous mammals

• Packs are led by an Alpha female

Feeding• Highly intelligent – have

very good eye sight• Scavenge as well as hunt

for food–Mainly hoofed animals

(wildebeest, antelope)– Follow vultures to

carcasses– Can digest everything from

fur to bone

• Frequently clash with lions over food

Reproduction

• Breed year round• Males do not

contribute to parental care

• Birth is difficult - 10% of first time mothers die during labor• Cubs are born with their eyes open and 2 in. canine teeth

• Cubs will attack each other from the moment they are born

Video!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xh2YpA1JzE