🐾 If you hear this at night, don’t go outside: Spotted hyena
Primary subject: Spotted hyena — Crocuta crocuta
When you hear an eerie laugh echoing in the night, it may be the call of a spotted hyena. Known for their distinctive vocalizations that can resemble human laughter, these animals use their calls to communicate within their clan. It's wise to be cautious, as hyenas can be dangerous if provoked.
🔎 Key Takeaways
- The direct answer: If you hear a peculiar laugh at night, it could signal the presence of a spotted hyena nearby.
- The main reason: Spotted hyenas use vocalizations to communicate with clan members and establish territory.
- Spotted hyenas can exert a powerful bite force of around 1,100 psi, comparable to a grizzly bear's bite.
- A hyena's vocalizations can be heard up to five kilometers away, aiding long-distance communication.
🧬 Why It Happens
Spotted hyenas are highly social animals living in complex matriarchal clans. Their vocalizations, including the famous 'laugh,' help them communicate clan boundaries and coordination among pack members. The 'laugh' is often used to signal submission or excitement.
These nocturnal hunters are equipped with powerful jaws capable of crushing bone, making them formidable predators. With a bite force of roughly 1,100 psi, they can effectively process tough hide and bones, which are a key part of their scavenged diet.
Hyenas' calls can reach up to five kilometers, allowing them to maintain contact over large territories. This long-range communication is essential for coordinating group activities, especially during night-time foraging when visibility is limited.
🌍 Where You Might See It
Spotted hyenas are predominantly found across sub-Saharan Africa, in habitats ranging from savannas to grasslands. They are most active during the night when they hunt and scavenge. Their vocalizations often serve to keep the clan together and alert members to the presence of food.
⚠️ Practical Caution
- Remain indoors if you hear hyenas nearby, especially after dark.
- Secure livestock and remove potential food sources that might attract hyenas.
- Maintain a safe distance; do not approach or attempt to feed hyenas under any circumstances.
- Be vigilant about your surroundings and report any concerns to local wildlife authorities.
- If camping or hiking in hyena habitats, follow guidelines provided by local wildlife experts.
In general, it is important to keep a safe distance from hyenas and to exhibit calm behavior. Always adhere to local regulations and guidance to ensure safety for both humans and wildlife.
Explore more fascinating wildlife insights and safety tips at AnimalsGuidebook.com.