While many question the appeal of adult hyenas, there is no denying that their cubs are adorable. In this video, a pair of tiny pups venture from their den under the watchful eye of their guardian.
Christopher Tosi submitted this enchanting footage to Latest Sightings. He filmed it while visiting South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
Little black furball
As we join Christopher at the sighting, we see a little black furball scampering through the grass. It is a baby spotted hyena.
Since hyena cubs are born in underground dens, the theory is that their black colour helps them hide in the darkness. This is in case a determined predator outwits the babysitter outside.
Collective responsibility
Subsequently, the camera zooms out to show the cub’s guardian. In hyena society, both male and female clan members share this important task.
Their role is to protect the den and the cubs within. By performing this duty, individuals may improve their status within the clan.
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Getting to know the whole family
Since all members of the clan rotate babysitting duties, the cubs get to bond with all the adults. This is vital for their social development and the long-term cohesion of the group.
Spotted hyenas live in social groups, numbering up to 50 individuals. Within the group, all females dominate all males, with the matriarch outranking all.
Colour change
Judging by the cubs’ size and colour, they are less than two months old. Usually between 2.5 and 3 months of age, their coat starts to change to the spotted pelt of adults.
Cubs are weaned at between 12 and 18 months of age. After that, they will join the adults as they forage far and wide for food.
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Growing in confidence
Until then, they develop both physical and social confidence close to the den. And at this early stage, it seems they are only brave enough to venture a few metres from their burrow.
Understandably, they still feel safest within the den, especially knowing the entrance is guarded by one of their own.
Under their guardian’s watchful eye, they are inquisitive about every new sight, sound, and scent that comes to them.
Accordingly, with each new venture, they inch a little further away from the den. With heads held high and ears perked up, their nervous excitement is tangible.
Sudden noise
However, when a vehicle nearby suddenly starts, they instinctively know just what to do. Barely hesitating, they spin towards their guardian…
Then, running as fast as their little legs will carry them, they race back towards the burrow.
Within seconds, they’re hidden from view, safe in the knowledge that their babysitter will protect them. No doubt, next time, they’ll be ready to explore a bit further.
