Watch The Sighting Here:
This video was sent to Latest Sightings by Francis. He filmed it while visiting South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
Curious Cub
Just after sunrise, Francis and his companions drew up alongside a spotted hyena den. This is typically a social time for hyenas, and the clan was actively chattering.
Then, one of the cubs made its way over to their vehicle to investigate.
Wheel Inspectors
With that, other members of the clan took an interest in Francis’s vehicle. Soon, a couple of adults and cubs were busily inspecting the front wheel.
This behaviour is observed mostly by safari goers, especially among cubs, who are famously curious.
At one point, it looked like one of the hyenas was nibbling at the tyre valve. Hyenas, equipped with bone-crushing jaws, occasionally puncture and shred tyres. Thankfully, in this case, no damage was done.
Uncomfortably Close
Having satisfied themselves that the vehicle’s wheels were not on the breakfast menu, one of the hyenas decided to investigate further.
Sniffing along the side of the vehicle, it showed particular interest in anything that protruded. Inevitably, this drew its attention to the front door handle.
Attempted “Hijacking”
Moments later, Francis and his friends had cause to wonder whether the hyena had more sinister intentions. Seconds after one of the occupants asked whether the doors were locked, the hyena bit the handle and tugged at it.
Thankfully, it was locked, and the would-be hijacker immediately walked away, losing interest.
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What’s Next?
With that, most of the other members of the clan dispersed. However, we can’t help but think that some of them looked somewhat disappointed that there wasn’t more on offer.
As the video draws to an end, one of the occupants appears shaken by the “attempted hijacking”.
In one breath, we hear them comment on how cute the cubs are. However, in the next they plead with the driver to keep the car running.
More About Hyenas
Spotted hyenas rank among the most frequently seen large predators in the Kruger National Park, coming in a close second to lions.
Once maligned as scavengers, they are actually successful predators. Between 50 and 70% of a spotted hyena’s diet consists of prey they have actively hunted themselves, rather than scavenged.
While all large predators will scavenge opportunistically, hyenas stand out as they can consume all parts of the carcass. Furthermore, they are not averse to eating flesh that is in a putrid state of decomposition.
This tendency means that they perform a vital clean-up function in the bush. This not only prevents the spread of diseases, but it also contributes significantly to nutrient recycling.
Spotted hyenas live in matriarchal societies. Females enjoy a higher place in the clan hierarchy than males, regardless of age. Females will stay with their natal clan for their whole lives, eventually inheriting their mother’s rank.
When young males reach sexual maturity, the clan evicts them. Following this, they will attempt to join other clans. This reduces the possibility of inbreeding.
Important Reminder
As seen in the video, it is always a good idea to keep your doors locked and windows closed when viewing wild animals. This is for the safety of both visitors and wildlife.