Points

15

per confirmed sighting

MammalConservation status: Least ConcernCommon to spot
mammals • Hyaenidae

Spotted Hyena.

S

Crocuta crocuta

A formidable predator and scavenger living in female-dominated clans.

Category

mammals

Family

Hyaenidae

Size

1.2–1.6 m, 45–80 kg

Points

15 pts

Log a sighting

A closer look

Field notes for spotting, identifying and understanding spotted hyena in its natural range.

Overview

A formidable predator and scavenger living in female-dominated clans.

How to identify it

Sloping back, powerful neck and jaws, sandy coat with dark spots and rounded ears.

Habitat

EltonTraits foraging-stratum classification: ground-dwelling/terrestrial (including aquatic ground-associated coding).

Diet

Hunted prey, carrion and bone

Behaviour

Clan-based, vocal at night with whoops and giggles

When to look

EltonTraits activity classification: nocturnal and crepuscular.

Where to see it

South Africa flagSouth AfricaNamibia flagNamibiaBotswana flagBotswanaZimbabwe flagZimbabweZambia flagZambiaMozambique flagMozambiqueEswatini flagEswatiniMalawi flagMalawiAngola flagAngola
  • Kruger National ParkZA
  • Chobe National ParkBW
  • South Luangwa National ParkZM

Safety and etiquette

Observe from a vehicle or a safe distance and never feed wildlife.

Verification and sources

1500 verified species across ten Southern African countries. Spotted an error? Tell us through community guidelines.