Hyenas are one of the most formidable predators after lions. When someone tries to make the list of apex predators, he will never forget to add the hyena to the list.
Imagine this is the valve of just one hyena, and what will about a group of hyenas? From a group of hyenas, I remember a question that often people ask, “What is a group of hyenas called?” The simple answer to this question is “Cackle.”
Today, we’ll discuss this question in detail and what other terms are used for a group of hyenas. So, keep reading till the last sentence of the article because I’m going to write a wonderful topic about a group of hyenas.
What is a Group of Hyenas Called?
A group of hyenas are simply called a cackle. Cackle is the collective noun that is used for a group of hyenas. The term pack and clan is also used for groups of hyenas.
The word “cackle” is derived from the Old English word “kākelen,” which means the imitation of a sound. Usually, “cackle” refers to a loud, unpleasant sound, such as the noise made by chickens.
“Cackle” is generally used for groups of hyenas because hyenas are known for their laughing sound. But actually, hyenas don’t laugh like humans do. They just communicate with each other, and people often mistake this behavior for hyenas being very happy and laughing.
Another word, “pack,” is used for hyenas because hyenas are social animals and often live in groups. They also hunt and travel in groups. Due to their social hierarchical structure, the word ‘pack’ can be used to refer to a group of hyenas.
How Many Hyenas Live in a Cackle?
The size of a hyena group depends on the species of the hyena and the habitat where they live. The two main species of hyenas are the spotted hyena and the smaller striped hyena, with the spotted hyena being the more social animals.
Spotted hyenas, which are known for living in large social groups, can have cackle size or pack sizes ranging from a few individuals to over 130 members in some cases.
These groups are hierarchical and usually led by a dominant female. Male hyenas only participate in hunting large prey and defend their territory.
Some experts believe that hyenas groups typically defend up to 620 square miles of area. Researchers also were amazed when they saw that a hyena group ate 1500 pounds of buffalo in just a few hours, and the remaining thing was just buffalo skulls and bones.
The size of the cackle also depends on food availability. Usually, most hyenas live in South Africa, where all types of animals and birds live in different wilds.
How Hyenas Hunt In Group?
Hyenas are known for their clever tactics. They often use these skills to catch larger prey than themselves. If animals mistakenly enter the hyena group, within minutes you will find only the skull and bones of the animal.
The reason behind hyenas have a powerful bite force among all the carnivores of approximately 1100 psi. They are social animals and spend most of their time in groups to catch prey.
Once hyenas see the target animals, they wait for a moment and suddenly attack the prey. Once they catch the prey, even if it’s a zebra, it’s impossible for it to flee.
Now, unlike other animals that first kill their prey and then eat, hyenas do not kill their prey; they just start eating the prey alive.
One reason for eating live animals is that hyenas are afraid of other predators. They try to finish their meal as soon as possible instead of first killing the prey.
If the predators arrive on the scene, all they will find are bones and skulls.
Are Hyenas Group Larger Than Lion’s Group?
Generally, hyenas are more social animals than lions. Lions also live in groups called pride, but this group only consists of 15 to 30 lions, including males and females. On the other hand, the hyena group consists of up to 80 hyenas but in rare cases, these may be up to 100.
Hyenas territory is also larger in size of up to 44 square km, but lions can establish only up to 20 square km territory.
In the hyena pack, the alpha female takes charge and leads the pack, while in lion pride, three to four male lions lead the way.
FAQ:
What is a group of hyenas called?
A group of hyenas is commonly referred to as a “clan.”
How large is a typical hyena clan?
Hyena clans typically consist of anywhere from 5 to 80 individuals. The clan size depends on habitat, prey availability, and other predator threats.
How do hyenas communicate within their clan?
Hyenas use various vocalizations and body language to communicate within their clan. Common vocalizations include whoops and growls. Hyena usually uses a whoops sound to call over long distances.
Do hyenas always hunt in cackle?
When hyenas want to hunt large prey they typically use their cooperative hunting behavior in clans, not all hunting activities involve the entire group. Individual hyenas may also engage in hunting, especially when targeting smaller prey or scavenging for carrion.
How do hyenas defend their territory?
Hyenas defend their territory through scent marking and vocalizations to alert other predators. Sometimes they engage in fights with other animals to protect their location.