Despite the species’ spotty reputation, you might be surprised to learn how smart and sweet-natured hyaenas are!
Here are five reasons why this species is way more interesting than you think.
Clever carnivores
Hyaenas are incredibly smart and have even been known to outperform some primates in problem-solving tasks.
Our keepers provide Spotted Hyaena Sabi with plenty of enrichment, including a personalised training program, to keep his intelligent mind ticking.
Not only does this activity provide mental stimulation, but it allows our keepers to provide top-notch health care by looking at his teeth and feeling for body condition, and even administering ear cream or a needle if necessary.
Nature’s cleaners
While they are excellent hunters, they also play an important role in the ecosystem as scavengers. Their strong digestive system allows them to eat all parts of an animal – meat, skin and bone included.
No laughing matter
The infamous hyaena laugh is a noise they make when they’re nervous or super stimulated and excited. They aren’t quite as vocal as the movies make them seem!
Females are in charge
Hyaenas live in a matriarchal society, meaning females rule the roost!
But did you know the females fake a body part to display similar anatomy to males?
Female hyaenas are able to display their reproductive organs to mimic that of a male – it’s referred to as a pseudopenis.
If the female is receptive to mating, she will invert this ‘fake organ’ back into her body, making it virtually disappear from sight!