Mammals
Striped Hyena
Hyaena hyaena · also called Asian hyena
Slipping out of a rocky den at dusk, a striped hyena bristles the long crest along its back, a quiet, shy scavenger that ranges from North Africa to India.
Overview
The striped hyena, Hyaena hyaena, is a Near Threatened scavenger native to parts of North and East Africa, the Middle East, the Caucasus, and South Asia. Its stripes, erectile crest, and wide range make it the most widespread and one of the shyest members of the hyena family.
The widest-ranging hyena
Where the spotted and brown hyenas are confined to Africa, the striped hyena stretches across three continents, a wide range that does not protect it from persecution in much of its territory.
Status
Near Threatened, with a population declining because of persecution, poisoning, and the loss of wild prey and carrion.
Striped Hyena: common questions
How can you tell a striped hyena from a spotted hyena?
The striped hyena has a pale coat with dark vertical stripes and a long crest of hair down its back, while the spotted hyena has a spotted coat and a more compact build.
Why does the striped hyena raise its crest?
It lifts the crest of hair along its back when threatened, making it appear much larger to a possible attacker.
Is the striped hyena a hunter or a scavenger?
It is mainly a scavenger, feeding on carrion, though it also eats small animals, insects, and fruit.
Where is the striped hyena found?
It is native to parts of North and East Africa, the Middle East, the Caucasus, and South Asia.