Spotted Hyena Facts: Clans, Laughing, Hunting and Where to See Them in East Africa

The spotted hyena is often portrayed as a cowardly scavenger, but real behaviour tells a different story. Spotted hyenas are intelligent, social carnivores that hunt most of their own food and compete with lions for kills. Their clans are led by females, which are larger and dominant over males.

This guide covers the facts that visitors ask about, from the famous "laugh" to jaw strength and clan life, and shows where to see hyenas on safari.

This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Clan Life

Do Hyenas Really Laugh?

The giggling sound is a sign of excitement, frustration or submission, often heard at kills when animals compete for food. Whoops carry long distances at night and are a classic sound of a safari camp.

Hunting and Diet

Hyenas hunt wildebeest, zebra, gazelles and other prey in groups, and they scavenge when carcasses are available. Their jaws can crush large bones, so they use almost every part of a kill. They sometimes drive lions off kills and in turn lose kills to lions. See what lions eat.

Myths and Facts

Hyenas are not related to dogs; they are closer to mongooses and cats. They are not mainly scavengers, and females are not hermaphrodites, although female anatomy can look unusual. The Lion King portrays hyenas as villains, but see Lion King animals in real life.

Hunters, Not Just Scavengers

Spotted hyenas hunt actively and often kill more of their own food than lions do. They live in clans led by females, who are larger and dominant. Their powerful jaws crush bones, and their calls, including the famous whoops and giggles, serve to keep clans in contact. Night drives and early mornings offer the best sightings.

Myths and Reality

Hyenas are often portrayed as villains, but they are skilled hunters, devoted mothers and complex social animals. Clans have strict hierarchies, and females lead. Their laugh-like calls communicate excitement or submission. Learning the facts changes how you see them, and guides often enjoy sharing stories about their habits.

Where to See Hyenas

Spotted hyenas are common in the Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Queen Elizabeth. Early morning and evening are good times. Clans often den near water, and guides can find dens. Observing their social behaviour is fascinating and often funny.

Where to See Hyenas

Hyenas are common in the Masai Mara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro, and are seen in Uganda in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls and Kidepo. Night drives increase the chance. See Masai Mara game drives, Serengeti and Queen Elizabeth.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team