Hyenas are interesting in that they are genetically more closely related to felines, but behaviorally more like canines. Similar to canines, they are non-arboreal (don’t climb trees) and they hunt by running to catch prey with their teeth rather than their claws. There are other similarities in behavior as well, but ultimately hyenas are neither cats nor dogs but rather their own unique family in the order carnivora. But when they roll around on the ground like this girl was doing in the Masai Mara of Kenya, they certainly look like a few dogs — and cats — that I’ve known in my day. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 360mm) ISO 800, f/5.6 at 1/1000th of a second
I know what you mean about having an unfavorable image of hyenas. My image is a pack of them tearing into a zebra or similar food source. They look menacing and mangy; a force not to be reckon with. The photo Sean posted is a nice surprise.
Honestly, I have never held a favorable view of hyenas, nor have I ever seen them compared to much loved cat and dogs – this adorable photo and additional information has changed my perception.
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Hyenas are interesting in that they are genetically more closely related to felines, but behaviorally more like canines. Similar to canines, they are non-arboreal (don’t climb trees) and they hunt by running to catch prey with their teeth rather than their claws. There are other similarities in behavior as well, but ultimately hyenas are neither cats nor dogs but rather their own unique family in the order carnivora. But when they roll around on the ground like this girl was doing in the Masai Mara of Kenya, they certainly look like a few dogs — and cats — that I’ve known in my day.
Cool behavior and nice sharp eye focus in a tough setting.
That’s one of the more adorable images of any hyena I have seen.
I know what you mean about having an unfavorable image of hyenas. My image is a pack of them tearing into a zebra or similar food source. They look menacing and mangy; a force not to be reckon with. The photo Sean posted is a nice surprise.
Honestly, I have never held a favorable view of hyenas, nor have I ever seen them compared to much loved cat and dogs – this adorable photo and additional information has changed my perception.
You’ve caught what is usually the most least attractive wild ‘dog’ looking playful and cute!
—– Scruffy and rugged
—– Spotted or striped varietals
—– And Aardwolves have their charm .
Very interesting. Thanks for the hyena info. I really love this animal.
oh what cool pic.