striped hyena
Quick Summary
The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is a mammal belonging to the Hyaenidae family, found in parts of Africa and southern Asia, extending to India. These carnivores are known for their scavenging habits but are also proficient hunters.12
Striped hyenas are characterized by their pale gray coat with black throat fur and distinct stripes on their body and legs. They possess long hair, forming a crest from behind their ears to their tail, which can be erected to make them appear larger.1
These hyenas inhabit scrub woodlands and arid or semi-arid open country. Their diet consists of insects, fruit, and small vertebrates. They are sometimes blamed for attacking livestock and digging up graves, leading to persecution in some areas.1
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