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While few would say adult hyenas are attractive, their young are undeniably cute. In this footage, a pair of curious cubs tentatively explore life outside their den.
Eric de Villiers submitted this adorable footage to Latest Sightings. He filmed it while visiting South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
Siblings at play
As we join Eric at the sighting, we see two playful spotted hyena cubs. Immediately, we can tell that they are from different litters.
The darker cub in the front is somewhat younger than its sibling, who sports the spotted coat typical of the species. It is said that hyena cubs are born black to keep them hidden inside their dens.
Playful and curious
Like most young animals, the cubs are as playful as they are curious. For them, the world at large is a place yet to be discovered.
Consequently, when a nearby vehicle reverses, the older cub watches with interest while the younger hides behind the babysitter. The younger cub was born in a nearby burrow and is only just starting to venture outside. As such, it is still quite skittish.
However, as soon as the vehicle stops moving, the younger animal resumes the near-constant harassment of its older clanmate. While it may be irritating, these interactions serve to strengthen bonds within the tight-knit group.
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Babysitting duty
Subsequently, we see two dark cubs alongside their babysitter. The role of babysitting is often left to a junior-ranking member of the clan.
The babysitter will protect the cubs while the clan goes hunting. The role alternates so that no member goes hungry.
With their protection, the cubs are free to play and explore close to the den. While they’re awake, the cubs are a constant bundle of energy.
However, when a noise startles them, the cubs instantly run towards the den entrance on the side of a termite hill.
Exploring resumes
As soon as the cubs settle, they’re ready to start exploring again.
This time, one of the cubs shows a sudden interest in Eric’s vehicle.
Bravely, it approaches to where Eric parks on the road’s edge. As it does, its sibling follows along.
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Growing excitement
In no time, the braver of the two cubs stands right below Eric’s window. Unsure what to make of the vehicle, its perked-up ears convey curiosity.
Each sound coming from within the vehicle seems to heighten the little one’s nervous excitement.
However, when a sudden creak from the vehicle’s suspension surprises the two cubs, they instantly run back towards the den.
Gradual habituation
When the cubs hear no further sounds, the stop at the den’s entrance. Looking back, they realise there’s nothing to worry about.
Subsequently, the pair turns back to resume their inspection of Eric’s vehicle.
At this rate, the cubs will soon be fully habituated to vehicles. As such, visitors like Eric will get to view their natural behaviour for many years to come.
When visiting den sites, please remember to keep noise and movement to a minimum to give young animals the chance to grow up in peace.
