Brett Marneweck sent this video to Latest Sightings. He filmed it while on a game drive in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
Stolen prize
We join the action in Brett’s video to see a lone spotted hyena attempting to steal the remains of an impala. Nearby, a couple of African wild dogs are closing in, determined not to let the hyena have its way.
One-on-one, a hyena is more powerful than a wild dog, equipped with the most powerful jaws of any predator. However, the dogs have a plan…
Easily repelled
As one of the dogs goes for the hyena, it is easily repelled by the lunging hyena. Just one bite could do serious damage, so it is wise to jump clear.
At this point, the other dog present is not getting actively involved. Rather, it waits for the right moment to join the fray.
Threat eliminated
However, when the hyena picks up the carcass, its jaws are no longer a threat. Consequently, the second dog rushes in while the first delivers a bite to the hyena’s vulnerable rear end.
While they don’t have the same bite force of a hyena, the dogs’ sharp, serrated teeth can still rip their enemy’s flesh with relative ease.
Third dog joins
To protect itself, the hyena is forced to drop the carcass. But as a third dog rushes in, its problems are starting to multiply.
As its stress levels climb, the hyena squeals in pain as the dogs repeatedly nip at its hindquarters.
Coordinated attack
As the dogs’ assault continues, they begin to coordinate their efforts. While one dog taunts the hyena from the front, three others simultaneously dash in to maul its rump.
Things go from bad to worse for the beleaguered hyena when two more dogs come to the aid of their pack mates.
Surrounded
Now surrounded, the poor hyena is having a torrid time trying to repel the highly agitated dogs.
Closing in from all sides, the dogs now take turns running in to inflict more damage. No sooner does the hyena spin to confront one than another dog moves in from a different direction.
Subsequently, one of the dogs reclaims the carcass, taking advantage of the chaos.
For a split second, the hyena debates trying to get it back. However, sensing they’re on the brink of victory, the dogs again close in from all sides.
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From fight to flight
At this, the hyena’s sole priority is escape. Tucking its hindquarters beneath it, it tries to scamper away from the vicious mob.
Determined to ensure their message is clear, the dogs continue to harass the squealing hyena as it flees. Now confident that they have recovered the scant remains of their kill, the dogs drop off the attack one by one.
Moments later, the hyena realises that the worst is over. Unbelievably, it then turns around as if considering stealing the remains once more.
Sensibly, though, a single glance at the assembled pack is all it takes for the scavenger to rethink the idea. If it knows what’s good for it, it will be a long while before this hyena tries to steal from wild dogs again.