Hyenas abroad and while traveling: are they dangerous, where do you encounter them, where can you see them?
What are hyenas?
- Hyenas are medium-sized predators, with four distinct species in existence: the spotted hyena, the brown hyena, the striped hyena, and the aardwolf.
- Much like humans, hyenas are highly intelligent, social predators that originated on the African savanna.
- Although hyenas resemble large, intimidating dogs—the kind you might want to steer clear of—they are not closely related to them. In fact, a hyena’s DNA is more similar to that of felines. With their broad heads, sharp teeth, and shaggy coats, they have a menacing appearance. Their front legs are longer than their hind legs, which gives their backs a hunched, curved look.
- Spotted hyenas make a sound that resembles laughter!
Where can you see hyenas in the wild, and where might you encounter them?
- The spotted hyena is found in Africa (south of the Sahara) and lives in groups. It is the largest and most aggressive hyena species. They inhabit deserts, steppes, savannas, and open woodlands.
- The striped hyena is found in North Africa, the Middle East, and India; it typically lives a solitary life.
- The brown hyena is a largely harmless scavenger native to southern Africa, primarily in arid regions.
- The aardwolf, which you might encounter at night in southern and eastern Africa, is the "sweet one" among hyenas; it is small and feeds exclusively on insects.
- Hyenas are increasingly appearing in areas where humans live.
- Hyenas are both hunters and scavengers. They primarily hunt at night and during the early morning hours.
Are hyenas dangerous or troublesome if you encounter them in the wild?
- Generally, hyenas do not attack humans during the day. However, they are quite territorial. Try to avoid entering hyena territory.
- Hyenas are significantly more dangerous at night. If you are camping during your safari, they could attack while you are asleep. It is therefore wise to always have someone keep watch and to ensure that no food or food scraps are kept near your sleeping area.
- On average, the likelihood of a hippopotamus walking straight through your tent on its way to the water is higher than the chance of being attacked by a hyena—a relatively comforting thought, perhaps?
What should you do to prevent an attack by a hyena?
- Do not move if the hyena remains still, and keep your eyes on the animal.
- Speaking to the hyena may help you stay calm.
- Try not to show your fear.
- Do not lie down or play dead; this will only pique their curiosity.
- If you are carrying any food, throw it away.
- Do not simply run off. Predators typically pursue prey that flees. Despite their hunched backs, hyenas can reach speeds of 50 to 60 km/h, so you would need a significant head start if you intended to outrun one.
- If they begin to growl or make their characteristic "laughing" sound, it is time to take action.
- Hyenas are, in fact, rather cowardly. If you make a lot of noise and adopt an aggressive posture, they will often quickly turn tail and flee.
- Option: try using a bright light (such as a flashlight or camera flash). Flashing a bright light into a predator's eyes can often disorient them.
What should you do if you are bitten by a hyena?
- A bite from a hyena is among the most dangerous bites you could possibly sustain.
- Their incredibly powerful jaws can break your bones with great ease.
- Furthermore, hyena saliva contains substances that you definitely do not want entering your body.
- If you are bitten, and you are still alive, seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
