Colloquially called the “strandwolf” due to its occasional forays along southern Africa’s coastlines, it represents a unique and fascinating species within the Hyaenidae family. Distinguished by its shaggy brown pelage, this species stands out for its distinct appearance and its status as the rarest of the hyena species. The characteristic long fur that adorns their neck, back, and shoulders serves a purpose beyond mere aesthetics; it can be raised to make the hyena appear larger and more intimidating when threatened, a crucial adaptation for survival in the wild.

The brown hyena’s physical features are well adapted to its environment and lifestyle. They possess large heads and pointy ears atop their muscular shoulders, which taper down to sloping back limbs, giving them a hunched appearance. This unique body structure, combined with their powerful jaws, is optimized for scavenging and endurance rather than speed. The eerie howl of the brown hyena, often compared to a hysterical human laugh, adds to the mystique of this nocturnal creature, whose vocalizations can be as captivating as they are unsettling.

Nocturnal by nature, brown hyenas seek refuge from the harsh daytime heat under trees, bushes, or rocks, emerging at night to forage. Their foraging behavior is methodical and habitual; they often follow the same paths they have previously used and scent-marked, relying on their keen sense of smell to navigate and locate food. While carrion constitutes the majority of their diet, making them crucial for the ecosystem as scavengers, brown hyenas are also capable hunters. They occasionally prey on living animals, targeting small mammals and birds, showcasing their adaptability and opportunistic feeding habits.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Angola

2014

Botswana

2014

Eswatini

2014

Presence Uncertain

Mozambique

2014

Presence Uncertain

Namibia

2014

South Africa

2014

Zimbabwe

2014