Origin:
The spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is one of the largest and most well-known hyena species. It is native to Africa, where it is found in the vast savannas, steppes and semi-deserts of the sub-Saharan region. It is highly adaptable and can inhabit a variety of habitats, including dry savannas and mountainous areas.

Specifics:
Appearance: The spotted hyena has a stocky body, strong jaws and distinctive spots on its short fur, which are unique to each individual. It has large rounded ears, robust legs and a short tail. Females are larger and more massive than males, which is quite unusual in the animal kingdom.
Size: Hyenas reach a height of 70–90 cm at the withers and weigh 50–90 kg, with the largest individuals originating from East Africa.
Behavior: The spotted hyena is a social animal that lives in large clans led by a dominant female. They are known for their cooperative hunting and territorial behavior. Hyenas communicate through vocalizations, scents, and body postures. Their famous “laugh” is actually a vocal expression used in social interactions.

Interesting facts:
Strong jaws: The spotted hyena has some of the strongest jaws among mammals, capable of crushing even the bones of large animals, allowing it to consume its entire prey without leaving any residue.
Matriarchy: Hyenas have unique social structures where females dominate. Females are not only larger, but also more aggressive and control the clans.
Effective hunters: Despite often being considered scavengers, spotted hyenas are capable of hunting large prey such as zebras, wildebeests, or antelopes on their own.
Occurrence:
The spotted hyena is found in sub-Saharan Africa, where it inhabits savannas, scrublands, and dry steppes. The largest concentration of these predators is found in eastern and southern Africa, especially in the Serengeti and Kruger National Parks. They are very adaptable and can live in areas where there is plenty of food.

Spotted hyena hunting:
The spotted hyena is not commonly hunted for trophies, but in some African countries targeted hunting may be allowed as part of population control. However, hunting them is difficult because they are very cautious and active mainly at night. Hyenas are often considered important members of the ecosystem, as they contribute to keeping the environment clean by consuming the remains of other predators. In some cultures, they are considered a symbol of courage and perseverance.