Tanzania: Serengeti NP – Spotted Hyena

The Spotted Hyena is an often overlooked “ugly” carnivore of Africa. Hyenas usually live in large groups and establish communal dens. They prey and hunt in groups, and are well-known to challenge lions for their fresh kill. Besides being excellent hunters, hyenas are scavengers and don’t mind rotting and disintegrated leftovers. This adaptability to food supply assured hyena’s survival as the most opportunistic carnivore in Africa. While the adults are definitely not the “prettiest looking” animals, the little pups are absolutely cute and cuddly.