This month I’m excited to spotlight some of the most powerful females in the animal kingdom: the Spotted Hyena! These creatures are not only strong and intelligent but also incredibly caring. They have quickly become my favourite animals to observe, and their unique behaviours never cease to amaze me.
We recently discovered a new den site for Spotted Hyenas in the northern part of the Thornybush reserve. This new location has allowed our guests to witness some of the most heartwarming sights of the tiny hyena cubs. It’s also given us a fantastic opportunity to delve deeper into the complex social structures of these remarkable animals.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Spotted Hyenas is their female-dominated society. The clan is led by a dominant female, who is supported by a coalition of high-ranking females. This strong network of females ensures that the clan runs smoothly, with the dominant female’s daughters and sisters often playing crucial roles in maintaining the clan’s status and stability.
Interestingly, female Spotted Hyenas are often mistaken for males. This confusion arises because they are generally larger than males and have reproductive organs that resemble those of males. Despite having fully functional female reproductive organs, their appearance is influenced by higher prenatal androgen levels, which contributes to this mix-up.
At the den site, we get an up-close view of the fascinating social dynamics of Spotted Hyenas. One of the most striking observations is the difference in size and aggression between offspring of higher-ranking and lower-ranking females. Cubs born to dominant females tend to be larger and more aggressive, a trait linked to the higher levels of testosterone they are exposed to in the womb. In contrast, cubs of lower-ranking females receive hormones associated with subordination, resulting in smaller and more submissive individuals from birth.
Spotted Hyena mothers are incredibly dedicated to their cubs. Each mother exclusively cares for her own offspring, even when multiple litters share the same den site. While mothers rarely bring meat back to the den, they ensure their cubs receive nourishment through their milk. Cubs rely on their mother’s milk until they are about 5-8 months old and begin to eat meat from nearby kills. Remarkably, even after cubs start consuming solid food, they continue to suckle from their mothers until they are around 18 months old.
Hyena mothers are not just caring but also incredibly resilient. Despite suffering severe injuries—such as missing limbs or eyes from encounters with lions or other hyenas—they display an extraordinary capacity for recovery and continue to care for their young with unwavering dedication.
Spotted Hyenas, with their blend of strength, intelligence, and maternal care, truly embody the spirit of empowerment. Their fascinating social structures and the resilience of their mothers offer us a remarkable perspective on the animal kingdom. Watching these incredible females in action never gets old, and their stories continue to inspire and captivate me.
Words: Sarah Barratt – Guide at Thornybush Game Lodge | Images: Guest – Bo Zhang
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