It’s been quite a while since we have had an established hyena den at Londolozi. That was up until a couple of weeks ago when we found that a clan of hyenas that occupy territory in the north had returned to a termite mound where they have denned before! Exciting times for Londolozi!
The Discovery
Often misunderstood, hyenas exhibit fascinating behavioural traits, especially when it comes to raising their young. The re-establishment of a den at Londolozi not only highlights that the mothers have returned to this area of Londolozi but also offers us a unique opportunity to observe their complex social structures and behaviours up close. The sight of a hyena den bustling with activity is an incredible opportunity to look into the intricate and adaptive nature of these remarkable creatures.
Hyena Denning Behavior
One of the most intriguing aspects of the hyena’s denning process is their preference for termite mounds. These well-developed mounds, which can house many different species, provide an ideal sanctuary for hyenas due to their solid, well-insulated construction. The labyrinth of tunnels within a termite mound offers a cool, stable environment for protecting their cubs from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Typically, a hyena mother will give birth to a litter of one to three cubs within these mounds. From our observations, there seem to be two litters of two cubs at this den in the north. One litter appears to be around three months old and the other is slightly younger, maybe around ten weeks. The safety and seclusion of this termite mound allow the mothers to focus on nurturing these cubs during the critical early stages of their development.
This hyena cub suckles from its mother. Hyenas are known to have the richest milk of any terrestrial carnivore.
Importance of Termite Mounds
Termite mounds are not just any denning site; they are crucial for the survival of hyena cubs. The solid, well-insulated structure of a termite mound provides a secure and stable environment, essential for the young cubs’ growth and protection. These mounds act as natural fortresses against predators and extreme weather, ensuring that the cubs have the best possible start in life. Within the first few weeks of life, the mother will often give birth to her cubs in a separate mound, where the cubs can slowly find their feet and grow a little for the first two to three weeks. From this point, the mother will then bring the cubs across to the communal den where the cubs will integrate with the other litters there.
Nutritional Value of Hyena Milk
During the early stages of development, the amount of milk the cubs consume is critical. Hyena cubs are fortunate because their mothers produce nutrient-rich milk, thanks to the calcium from the bones they eat. Unlike other mammals, hyenas can break down the bones of their prey, extracting every possible nutrient. This calcium is then passed into their milk, allowing the cubs to drink highly nutritious milk. Once the cubs begin to eat meat, their mothers will start to bring back pieces of scavenged meat, gradually transitioning them to a diet that will sustain them as they grow.
Excitement at Londolozi
With the cubs staying in the den for the first eight months or so of their lives, we expect to have a good patch of amazing viewing at this den. The fact that we have an established den on Londolozi again is truly exciting! It allows us to once again witness the incredible relationships these animals have with each other. The opportunity to observe these misunderstood animals in their natural habitat, particularly the interactions within their clan and the nurturing of their young, is a rare and valuable experience.
Look out for these fascinating animals when you are here next and be sure to visit the den site if it is still around. You’ll be treated to some incredible viewing and a deeper understanding of the remarkable lives of hyenas.
Yes indeed! Hyenas are such intriguing animals, both from an evolutionary (phylogenetic) point of view and a behavioural one. The Hyenidae are closer to the Viverridae, in spite of that people often think they belong to Canidae family. They are actually closer to a genet than to a wild dog or an African wolf or jackals or foxes. When looking at the pictures of the cubs, I see a strong resemblance to the wolverine, that lives in Northern Europe and United States. Have you ever “met” a den of Striped hyenas or a Brown Hyena or Aardwolves? The latter are my favourite. Their social structure is unique, and so very peculiar. The mother hyena is the head of the clan and the biggest one. She often set up the hunt. But you will surely find and observe much more information about it being close! After leopards, Londolozi may become an expert site for impala, hyenas and many more other animals…
yeah! cutest pics! can’t wait for more! hyenas are fascinating!
What wonderful pictues of the cubs!
Thanks, Patrick, for this update on the hyenas and their den. I will certainly want to have a good look at them in September, if they will still be around by then. Though they are not really beautiful animals, the young ones are really cute and all of them are really fascinating and interesting to watch.
Hi Patrick, this is fantastic that there are two litters of hyenas on Londolozi ground. They definitely are an asset to Londolozi. I personally don’t like the hyenas, because they just about always steal hard earned kills from other predators. Then they still call their other members to come help with the raid. Their pups look just like small dog pups. They do look after their pups very well, keeping them warm and protected for a long time before they can come out of the den.
Great Shots, Patrick! The youngest hyenas are so inquisitive as well, not fearing to come close to the vehicles are they begin to explore their surroundings more. Really cuties, too!
Thank you Patrick for the update on the hyenas.
Fantastic images shown here Patrick. The little ones are so spunky and cute during their early months. Fingers crossed they’ll still be in that den early October, or at least in the area.