Spotted Hyena

Hi there! I am a Spotted Hyena, and I am so excited to tell you my story. I live on the big, grassy plains of Africa, which is called the savanna. It’s a beautiful place with warm sun and lots of room to run. When I was born, I joined a big, noisy family called a clan. Our clans are very special because the girls are the leaders! My mom is the boss, and she is very smart and strong. She teaches all of us cubs how to find food and stay safe. It’s so much fun to tumble and play with my brothers and sisters all day long. We love chasing each other through the tall grass. My coat has cool spots all over it. This isn't just to look nice; the spots help me blend in with the shadows in the grass, so I can hide when I need to.

Have you ever heard that we hyenas 'laugh'? It sounds a little like a 'whoop-whoop-giggle,' but we aren't laughing because someone told a funny joke. That sound is our special way of talking to each other. We make that noise when we are excited, especially when we find something delicious to eat. We also have lots of other sounds we use to chat with our clan members to let them know what's happening. My species, Crocuta crocuta, was first introduced to scientists a long, long time ago, way back in 1777. We are very strong animals, and we are great hunters. We work together as a team to catch our dinner. I also have a secret weapon: one of the most powerful bites in all of Africa! My jaws are so strong that I can crunch right through big bones that other animals have to leave behind.

Being a great hunter is only one part of my job on the savanna. My clan and I are also the savanna's official 'clean-up crew.' After other animals finish their meals and leave leftovers behind, we come along and make sure that nothing goes to waste. By eating every last bit, we help keep our home clean and healthy for all the other animals that live here, like zebras and wildebeest. It's a very important role! We are smart and caring, and we are essential to our ecosystem. I’m very proud to be a spotted hyena. Helping to keep the beautiful African savanna in balance is the best job in the world, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.