tHe misUnderst00d

HYENA...

Few animals are more maligned than the hyena. And admittedly, they are not exactly endearing creatures. The beady eyes, sloping back, and stolid manner all suggest something scruffy and villainous to many human observers. Besides, the hyena laughs and giggles like a maniac. Its eerie whoop often pierces the quite of the African night. But hyenas have received more than their fair share of negative publicity. So let's set the records straight on a few counts. First of all, the hyena is often thought of a dog or some sort, but no, it isn't. A distinct species, it's resemblance to the dog is purely superficial.

They are also thought of as cowards, on the contrary they are not. If so then they wouldn't be effective hunters. Yes, hyenas are not just scavengers. They have in fact the exceptionally powerful shoulders and strongest jaws of all the African carnivores. No wonder only the male lion could resist the onslaught of a group of hyenas.

But why does it laugh??? The hyenas manic giggle may sound unpleasant but he is merely communicating with his fellow clan member. Each has their own whoop which the other hyenas recognized. In this way, widely scattered clan members let one another know where they so that they can regroup if the need arise. Their excitement at making a kill or discovering carrion is voiced in high-pitched giggles.

Do you dislike the hyena? Granted it is not cuddly or appealing but after all, it's what makes this creature unique and exceptional. The hyenas other qualities such as power and cunning does impress and fascinates us, they truly are beautiful souls.