The African savanna is home to many creatures, including the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) — also known as the painted dog — and the hyena family (Hyaenidae).
Though they occupy similar spaces, these two carnivores have distinct characteristics. Let’s compare the African wild dog with the hyena to highlight how they differ in appearance, lifestyle, habitat, and conservation status.
Sadly, the African wild dog faces greater conservation challenges than hyenas, whose populations are generally more stable. Let’s take a closer look.
Taxonomy and evolutionary history
Although African wild dogs and hyenas both live in Africa and share some of the same habitats, they’re not closely related on the tree of life. Here’s a quick look at the taxonomic and evolutionary histories of these two carnivores.
African wild dog
African wild dogs are unique within the dog family, Canidae. In fact, they’re the only species in their genus, Lycaon.
Hyena
When we say “hyena,” we’re actually referring to a family of animals, Hyaenidae. The hyena family consists of four distinct species: the aardwolf, the spotted hyena, the brown hyena, and the striped hyena.
Here’s a surprise: Hyenas are more closely related to felines and mongooses than they are to canines.
Morphology: Physical Characteristics
African wild dogs and hyenas have very different builds and markings. Here’s a brief rundown of their most notable physical characteristics:
African Wild Dog
Wild dogs are typically 24 to 30 inches tall, weighing in at 80 pounds or less. They’re known for their large, rounded ears and their uniquely mottled coats. In fact, each wild dog has a coat pattern that’s all its own.
Hyena
Hyenas, on the other hand, have a characteristic sloping back, caused by their shorter hind legs and longer front legs. The largest hyenas stand around 3 feet tall at the shoulder and can weigh up to 150 pounds.
Hyena species differ in the colors and patterns of their coats. Spotted hyenas have spots (obviously), while striped and brown hyenas have striped coats. All hyenas have exceptionally powerful jaws, but the spotted hyena’s jaws are particularly strong.
Distribution and Habitat
Both hyenas and African wild dogs are native to Africa, but their ranges and habitat preferences differ.
African Wild Dog
African wild dogs used to roam throughout sub-Saharan Africa, but their populations in Northern and West Africa have been decimated, and they’re now considered endangered.
These dogs tend to prefer open savannas and semi-arid plains.
Hyena
There are four species of hyena: spotted, striped, brown, and aardwolf. Spotted hyenas are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, while striped hyenas are found in North and East Africa, as well as parts of the Middle East and Asia. Brown hyenas are primarily found in southern Africa.
While they share some of the same habitats as African wild dogs, hyenas are more adaptable and can be found in arid deserts and semi-mountainous terrain as well.
Behavior and Social Structure
Both hyenas and African wild dogs are social animals, but their social structures differ significantly.
African Wild Dog
African wild dogs are known for their intensely social nature. They live and hunt in packs, and these packs depend on cooperation for survival.
Within the pack, there’s a clear hierarchy. The pack typically consists of a dominant breeding pair, their offspring, and other related adults. Hunting is a team effort: Dogs work together to pursue and take down prey much larger than themselves.
The bonds within an African wild dog pack are strong. They care for the sick and injured, and they share food. This level of cooperation is one of the keys to their success.
Hyena
The social structure of hyenas is more variable and depends on the species. Brown hyenas are similar to wolves, living in smaller packs. Aardwolves are mostly monogamous, forming pairs. Striped hyenas may be solitary or live in pairs.
Spotted hyenas, on the other hand, live in large, complex clans. These clans can number dozens of individuals, and they have a strict dominance hierarchy, which is unusual in that it’s led by females.
While all hyenas scavenge, spotted hyenas are also skilled hunters. They often work together to take down large prey animals. Aardwolves have a unique feeding strategy. They’re primarily insectivorous, using their long, sticky tongues to lap up termites and other insects.
Hunting Strategies and Diet
African wild dogs and hyenas have different hunting styles. Wild dogs are persistence hunters, meaning they rely on stamina and cooperation to chase their prey over long distances. They usually hunt medium-sized ungulates (hoofed animals).
Hyenas are more opportunistic. They’ll scavenge carcasses, but they’ll also hunt. They’re less picky than wild dogs and will eat just about anything they can get their paws on.
Both species play important roles in their ecosystems. Wild dogs help control ungulate populations. Hyenas clean up carrion, which can help prevent the spread of disease.
Conservation and threats
African wild dogs are an endangered species, and their numbers are falling. They face shrinking habitats, conflicts with humans, and deadly diseases.
Hyenas are generally more stable. The IUCN lists spotted hyenas and aardwolves as species of “least concern.” But brown hyenas and striped hyenas are classified as “near threatened,” meaning they could face endangerment in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who would win in a fight, wolf or hyena?
This is a tough one, and it really depends on the specific animals involved. Generally, a hyena has the edge due to its stronger bite force and more robust build. However, a pack of wolves working together could certainly pose a significant threat and potentially win against a single hyena.
Can a dog win against a hyena?
A domestic dog is unlikely to win against a hyena in a one-on-one fight. Hyenas are significantly larger, stronger, and possess a much more powerful bite. Wild dogs, with their pack tactics, might fare slightly better, but a single wild dog would still be at a serious disadvantage.
Is a wild dog stronger than a hyena?
No, a hyena is generally stronger than a wild dog. Hyenas have a more powerful bite force, stronger jaws, and a more muscular build. Wild dogs rely on their speed, agility, and pack hunting strategies to take down prey, rather than individual strength.
Do hyenas eat wild dogs?
Yes, hyenas are known to prey on wild dogs when the opportunity arises. While wild dogs are skilled hunters, they are smaller and less powerful than hyenas, making them vulnerable to attack. Hyenas are opportunistic carnivores and will take advantage of any available food source.
Putting It All Together
African wild dogs and hyenas, though both predators of the African savanna, represent vastly different evolutionary stories and play unique roles in their ecosystems. Wild dogs are social pack hunters, while hyenas are more opportunistic, often scavenging but also capable hunters.
Sadly, African wild dogs face a severe conservation crisis, making ongoing conservation efforts absolutely vital for their survival. Understanding the distinct characteristics and ecological importance of both species is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of African ecosystems.