Spotted hyena

Why in News?

A recent study discovered that the hyena (Crocuta crocuta), one of Africa’s most abundant carnivores, appeared in southern Egypt after it became extinct in Egypt 5,000 years ago.

• It is a Non-arboreal, Nocturnal, Highly social hyena species found abundant in sub Saharan Africa.
• It is also known as the laughing hyena.
• Scientific Name - Crocutta crocutta.
• Family – Hyaenidae (largest extant member of the Hyaenidae).
• Weight - 40-86 kg - females often weigh more than males.
• Habitat - Semi-desert, savanna and open woodland, dense, dry woodland, and montane regions.
• Range - Sub-Saharan Africa, though historically across Africa and Eurasia.
• Distinction - It is physically distinguished from other species by its vaguely bear-like build, rounded ears, less prominent mane, spotted pelt, more dual-purposed dentition, fewer nipples, and pseudo-penis.
• It is the only placental mammalian species where females have a pseudo-penis and lack an external vaginal opening.

• Diet – Carnivorous.
• Conservation status
  • IUCN Status - Least Concern.
  • CITES Appendix - Not listed.
• Population in Wild - 27,000-47,000 individuals; most abundant within the Serengeti ecosystem and Kruger National Park.
• Threats - Habitat loss and poaching.

References

1. Down to Earth | Spotted Hyena
2. Inaturalist | Spotted Hyena