Although not as well known as lions and leopards, hyenas are also important predators that live in the open savannahs of Murchison Falls. Hyenas belong to the family Hyaenidae, and the species found in Murchison Falls is the spotted hyena.
Behavior and Diet
Hyenas are often known as scavengers that feed on leftovers from other predators, but they are also skilled hunters. They can hunt animals like buffaloes and antelopes.
Hyenas live in grassy and woodland areas of the park. In these places, they hunt or feed on kills made by lions or leopards. But most of the food they eat comes from their own hunts. They have strong jaws and can bring down large prey.
Social Structure
Hyenas are very intelligent and live in groups called clans, where females are the leaders. They control feeding and mating in the group.
When and Where to See Hyenas
They are mostly active at night. The best time to see them is during night game drives near Paraa and the Nile-Lake Albert Delta.
Communication
Hyenas communicate using different sounds. Their famous “laugh” is one of their main ways to bond with each other. Studies show that the pitch and tone of the laugh can tell the age and rank of the hyena in its group.
Reproduction
One unique thing about hyenas is how they reproduce. Their pregnancy lasts about 110 days. Female hyenas have a special body structure that makes giving birth difficult. This is caused by high levels of certain hormones before birth and is also linked to their dominant behavior.
Baby hyenas are called cubs. They are born with open eyes and small teeth, which help them survive. They stay in den sites for up to a year, nursing from their mothers, before they start going out to look for food.
Role in the Ecosystem
Hyenas play an important role in keeping the park’s ecosystem healthy. By hunting herbivores, they help control animal numbers in the park.
Hyenas are important and interesting animals. Book a night game drive near Paraa or the Nile-Lake Albert Delta to spot hyenas during your Murchison Falls safari.
