It was pack vs clan in the Kruger National Park when some wild dogs and spotted hyenas took each other on in full view of spectators.
Watch The Sighting:
A flurry of movement and noise filled the air as the two carnivore groups clashed.
The Action Heats Up: Hyenas VS Wild Dogs
Both hyenas and wild dogs are fairly ruthless hunters. Both species have been known to tear their prey apart while it is still alive.
However, what happens when a clan of hyenas, as they are called, crosses paths with a pack of African wild dogs?
The experts say the outcome depends on several key factors, including numbers and the context of the encounter. In this instance, there was no carcass or food to contend for. This was possibly a territorial conflict.
Spotted Hyenas Run Out In Full Force
The wild dogs ran around on the road and into the bushes in numbers, making their distinct chirping sound. Their tails were up in high alert, and they were clearly disturbed.
It was easy to tell why. Some spotted hyenas were in the bushveld just off the road, and they came running out in full force.
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Hyenas are larger, more physically powerful animals than wild dogs. They are also highly aggressive, which often intimidates the wild dogs
However, wild dogs will stand their ground if they outnumber the hyenas, which was the case in this instance. When the hyenas ran towards them, they scattered for a moment, but then regrouped to stand against the threat.
Animals Cause Commotion On The Road
The animals chased one another and showed displays of aggression. However, the actual encounter remained fairly restrained and didn’t escalate into serious injuries as one might have imagined it would have.
The wild dogs harassed the hyenas, getting their confidence from their sheer numbers, however, they avoided direct combat.
Both species were quite vocal and communicated between pack members. They communicated back and forth as they ran around.
The wild dogs were as a hive of busy bees; all over the show and determined to show their mettle as a pack. As one of the most social carnivores in the world, wild dogs thrive in these tight-knit packs. Packs can comprise up to 30 individuals.
The hyenas had the advantage in terms of their large size. When they would run towards the wild dogs, the wild dogs would scatter.
The distinctive whooping sound of the hyenas could be heard above the chirping sound of the wild dogs. This was not a quiet affair!
The frenzy of energy resulted in no bloodshed. Interestingly, hyenas have the strongest jaws relative to body size of any mammal. They can crush thick bones to access nutritious marrow and digest almost everything, including bones and hooves.
This makes them a formidable opponent. The wild dogs weren’t taking any chances on engaging with them in direct combat.
The incredible sighting is one that won’t easily be forgotten, as both hyenas and wild dogs emerged in great numbers. Both species meant business and were prepared to make a noise about it!