Since most large predator species compete for the same resources, their relationships are complex. In this footage, the so-called friendly enemies face off over the remains of an antelope.
Brian Love shared this tense footage with Latest Sightings. He filmed the interaction in South Africa’s Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
Dog’s delight
As we join Brian at the sighting, we see four African wild dogs feeding on the remains of an impala. With only 6,600 living in the wild, it is a very special sight.
Once widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, they now only inhabit scattered protected area in southern and eastern Africa. As such, any sighting is an occasion to savour.
Hopeful hyena
Nearby, a lone spotted hyena is enjoying a chunk of flesh it found in the long grass. We best describe their relationship with the dogs as “friendly enemies”.
Hyenas often trail wild dogs, hoping for just such an occasion. We call this kleptoparasitism, where one species routinely steals resources from another.
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Mutual distrust
However, since the dogs outnumber the hyena, he keeps a close watch on them. Although its powerful jaws can cause severe damage, it, in turn, can ill afford an injury.
Both species are highly social and intelligent. Additionally, both hunt by chasing prey to exhaustion before ripping it apart.
Fears realised
Subsequently, the hyena’s fears are realised as the dogs turn their attention to it. While there was enough food, they were tolerant.
Now that it is gone, they’d rather the scavenger leave. The only problem is that every time it tries, its hindquarters are exposed to the dog’s nipping teeth.
Consequently, the hyena backs up against the wheel of Brian’s safari vehicle. At least this way, its rump is protected.
Mob behaviour
Four of the dogs, who appear to be youngsters, surround the hyena. However, they’re careful to stay just out of reach.
Then, as the hyena turns to confront one, the others rush in, snapping their teeth. Fortunately for both, neither species manages to land a bite.
Throughout the confrontation, the dogs make their distinctive twittering call. The sound serves as a rallying cry, maintaining the hype as they confront their rival.
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Give me a break
With the pressure from the dogs unrelenting, the hyena looks for avenues of escape. At one point, it seems to consider jumping onto the safari vehicle.
It even looks towards Brian, as if asking if he has any suggestions. Or better yet, a helping hand.
Game over
Frustrated, the hyena lunges at the dogs. But they’re too nimble, and it doesn’t help resolve the stalemate.
Thankfully, a short while later, the dogs seem to tire of their taunting game. They’ve made their point.
Consequently, they back off, and the hyena can finally make good its escape.
