Hyenas
All About a Nocturnal Predator
Hyenas are doglike carnivores found in Asia and Africa
They are known for their scavenging habits
Three species of hyenas are: spotted, brown, and striped. Spotted hyenas are the largest
Their habitat includes forest edges, grasslands, savannas, sub-deserts, and mountains up to 13,000 feet elevation
Hyenas are distributed across Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia
They have distinctive features: four-legged, scraggly fur, large ears, and long forelegs with a powerful neck and shoulders
Hyenas are proficient hunters with excellent sight, hearing, and smell, and are primarily nocturnal
Typically, hyenas live for about 12 years, but can reach up to 25 years. Brown hyenas generally have shorter lifespans
Spotted hyenas are of least concern, while brown and striped hyenas are near threatened as per IUCN
Conservation Status
A striped hyena, an endangered species, was found dead near a forest in Gajendragad, Karnataka
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