Hyenas are usually portrayed as just scavengers which, as the word scavenger suggests, scavenge off the kills of other animals. However, what many people don’t know is that they are also hunters, and very skilled hunters at that.
These hyenas worked together to hunt and kill a topi in full view of David Wolfson and his game viewing entourage. They presented a spectacular example of the determination and ruthlessness with which hyenas hunt down their prey.
Hyenas, highly skilled hunters
As highly capable hunters, hyenas secure most of their own food. Studies in ecosystems like the Serengeti National Park have shown that hyenas can hunt successfully in up to 60 to 70 percent of their attempts, depending on conditions and prey type.
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Topi, on the other hand, are built for speed and endurance, making them a challenging target even for coordinated predators. This clan of hyenas had their sights set on some topi, which were grazing in the vicinity.
Clan members encircle topi
Members of the clan ran around a topi with persistent energy, herding the topi in their desired direction and closing in on the antelope through steady, deliberate movements.
Their intention was to tire the buck out, and it was clear this strategy was working.
The spotted hyenas’ intelligence, stamina, and cooperative strategy was on beautiful display as they closed in on the buck.
Hyena social structure and hunting dynamics play a critical role in their success. They live in clans that can number from a few individuals to over 80 members. These clans are matriarchal, meaning females dominate and lead hunting efforts.
This clan was made of many members and they acted in unity to intimidate and herd in the topi.
A unique hunting strategy
The spotted hyena relies heavily on endurance rather than short bursts of speed when hunting. Instead of sprinting briefly like many predators, it maintains a steady pace of around 40 to 50 km/h over long distances, gradually wearing down its prey.
This ability is supported by large lungs and a powerful cardiovascular system, which allow for prolonged chases without rapid exhaustion.
Communication also plays a crucial role during hunts, as hyenas use whoops and other vocalisations to coordinate movement and maintain group cohesion.
The topi, by contrast, is one of the fastest antelope in Africa and is highly adapted to detecting danger early. It can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h in short bursts, giving it a strong initial advantage during a chase.
Topi prefer open plains, where their visibility is maximised and predators can be spotted from a distance. Males often stand on elevated termite mounds, acting as sentinels that scan for threats and alert the herd.
Their excellent eyesight allows them to detect even subtle movement far away, while herd behavior increases survival by creating confusion and reducing the likelihood of any one individual being singled out.
A moment of triumph for the clan
The hyena succeeded in bringing down the topi and what followed was a barbaric kill. It was a moment of triumph for the clan and a reminder that hyenas are so much more than scavengers.