Kruger Park Hyena

One of the characteristic predators of the African savannah the Spotted Hyena was long thought to be solely a scavenger, but it is now known that it is one of the most successful hunters. Its sloping features and ungainly walk, together with its eerie call have earned the Spotted Hyena a bad reputation. Long thought to be of the dog family the Hyena is now thought to have more cat-like features.

The Spotted Hyena is well known for its macabre chuckle or “laugh”, which is an indispensable sound of the African bush at night. The large head, sloping back and a keen sense of smell is unique to this species.
Description from www.krugerpark.co.za/africa_spotted_hyaena.html

We lived in Johannesburg in the 70s and visited the Kruger Park several times. Always a very special experience, the sights and sounds of Africa.

Scanned original photo (1978)

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