Spotted hyena
Scientific name: Crocuta crocuta
- How weight is recorded: Whole weight
Field notes
Appearance
Heavily built predator with prominent forequarters and sloping hindquarters. Tawny-yellow coat with distinct dark spots; males noticeably larger and darker than females.
Size and weight
Males 55–65 kg, body length 125–150 cm; females 40–50 kg, body length 115–140 cm.
Habitat
Open and semi-open grasslands, savannas, and scrub-covered plains. Ranges from lowlands to approximately 2000 m elevation.
Distribution
Widespread across East and Southern Africa from Somalia to South Africa. Prefers open savanna and grassland habitats.
Diet
Primarily large antelopes and zebra, plus smaller mammals and ungulates; scavenges carrion and opportunistically feeds on insects.
Behaviour
Predominantly crepuscular and nocturnal, though active in daylight. Matriarchal clan structure with rigid dominance hierarchy; movement patterns range from territorial to nomadic depending on prey availability.
Hunting tips
Look for large pug marks (10 cm) around waterholes and game trails. Hunt during twilight hours by locating clans or mothers with kills. Wind control is paramount—approach from downwind along natural cover and move slowly to avoid detection.
Whole weight
This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.
Where it is hunted
Listed as huntable in 8 countries in Huntify.
Names in other languages
- noFlekkhyene
- svFläckig hyena
- daPlettet hyæne
- fiTäplähyeena
- deTüpfelhyäne
- frHyène tachetée
- esHiena manchada
- itIena macchiata
- nlGevlekte hyena
- plHiena cętkowana
Current language: en
These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.