The Spotted Hyena
When we venture into the wild, one of the most exhilarating moments is discovering the tracks left behind by animals.
These footprints tell a story of what has passed through the area and offer clues to the creatures we share the land with.
Among the most distinctive of these tracks are those of the Spotted Hyena, the largest of the four Hyena species found in sub - Saharan Africa.
The Art of Tracking
Wildlife tracking is an ancient skill, honed over generations, and essential for monitoring and studying wildlife.
Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to spot tracks, as the angle of the sun casts shadows that make the impressions more visible.
The main pad of a Hyena's track is large, with an angled posterior edge, and the blunt claws leave noticeable imprints.
The front paws are generally larger, measuring around 96mm, while the rear paws are slightly smaller at 89mm.
Unlike lions, Hyenas do not have retractable claws, making their tracks easy to distinguish.
Spotting the Differences
Recognizing Hyena tracks involves noting the specific characteristics of their footprints.
Hyenas have two lobes on the main pad, with closely - set toes with minimal negative space between them. In contrast, a lion's track has three lobes and visibly separated toes.
Hyena tracks are also more elongated compared to those of lions or leopards, reflecting their unique physiology where the front legs are more robust and longer than the hind legs to support their powerful forequarters.
Hyena Behavior and Symbolism
Spotted Hyenas are fascinating creatures, often misunderstood. They are adept hunters, capable of bringing down prey many times their size, such as cape buffalo and giraffes.
Their social structure is matriarchal, with females dominating the clans, which can number from three to 80 individuals.
This system is unique and openly competitive, with individual dominance playing a significant role.
In African folklore, Hyenas hold a dual role, representing both cunning and power. Some tribes view them as symbols of royalty and mystical abilities, while others see them as deceptive creatures.
Their complex behavior and social interactions make them a subject of endless fascination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Unique Characteristics
Hyenas possess some extraordinary traits. Their jaws exert the highest pressure of any mammal, capable of crushing bones, which is why their dung is often white from the high calcium content.
They are also known for their vocalizations, including the famous "laugh" or "giggle", which can be heard over great distances. These sounds serve various social functions within the clan.
Conclusion
The Spotted Hyena, with its unique tracks, formidable hunting skills, and complex social structure, is a remarkable inhabitant of the African savanna.
Tracking these animals offers a glimpse into their world and deepens our appreciation for the intricate web of life in the wild.
About The Author
Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.
Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.
To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography
More Things I Love Stories
For more articles about things I love you can click on the links below, there are so many great things amongst us to discover and learn about as they play a major role in nature as we see it today.
Acacia Gum: Click Here
Fly Fishing: Click Here
Birding: Click Here
Stars: Click Here
Sunsets: Click Here
Sunrise: Click Here
Kelp: Click Here
Beard Lichen: Click Here
Mountains: Click Here
Art and Meaning of Tracking: Click Here
Tracking Lions: Click Here
Tracking Rhinos: Click Here
Tracking Elephants: Click Here
Tracking Leopards: Click Here
Comments, Suggestions, Stories
Please do feel free to add any comments in our comments section below, we always love to hear about animals and experiences from our readers.
