The intricate dance of predator dynamics at play in the wilderness is a fascinating one and often filled with misconceptions. In this corner of the African wilderness, the age-old tale of predator and prey takes on its own unique twists and turns, offering us insights into the fascinating interactions between some of nature’s most formidable creatures.

Outnumbered by the hyena, this lioness runs for cover towards the thicket on the other side of the airstrip.

While the clashes between these iconic predatory species, such as lion, leopard and hyenas are often depicted in broad strokes across the savannas of Africa, the reality here reveals that these behaviors are in fact shaped by the delicate balance of ecosystems and the ebb and flow of predator populations. From the stealthy movements of solitary leopards to the calculated strategies of hyena clans, each predator plays a vital role in shaping the intricate web of life at Londolozi.

In today’s blog I will unravel the mysteries, dispelling common misconceptions and uncovering the subtle nuances that govern the lives of these majestic creatures, with particular focus on hyenas.

The common misconception that hyenas always roam in packs, engaged in constant battles with lions over kills. While this scenario holds true in certain areas, it’s not the typical scene witnessed at Londolozi. Here, the behavior of hyenas deviates from the common portrayal on the Discovery channel, influenced by various factors including fluctuating predator populations.

Beyond their den-sites, hyenas are often spotted roaming solo at Londolozi, prompting frequent inquiries from guests puzzled by the absence of large packs. However, for hyenas, traveling in packs proves less efficient, largely due to the significant presence of leopards in the area. Let’s dive deeper into this aspect.

Simply put, hyenas do form packs or clans that can consist of up to 40 or so individuals but will often seek out a meal on a solo mission, or maybe with another clan member. So should they come across a meal there will be no competition with other hyenas in the clan to feed. However, should they come across a meal that requires a little more man-power to overcome or secure from another predator, they will call for back up.

To effectively challenge lions for a kill, hyenas must outnumber them significantly. A commonly mentioned ratio suggests four hyenas for every lioness, and even more if a large male lion is in the vicinity. Though the exact origin of this ratio remains uncertain, it serves as a reasonable starting point for discussion. It’s important to note that the dynamics involved in this scenario extend beyond a simple numbers game, but for the sake of argument, let’s consider the 4:1 ratio as a baseline figure.

A pride of lionesses loses their kill to a large clan of hyenas on the Londolozi airstrip.

Imagine a scenario where the Ntsveu Pride, comprising five lionesses, successfully brings down a buffalo with the two Ndzhenga males nearby. Strictly speaking in terms of numbers, it would take over 30 hyenas to displace the lions from their kill. Even if successful, the hyena clan would then need to divide the spoils among its members. In all likelihood, the available food might not suffice for everyone, and there’s a high probability of injuries or fatalities during the altercation with the lions.

A male Lion manages to grab a hyena that pushed the limits too far.

So, why might hyenas opt for alternative food sources instead of engaging lion prides? The main factors against such confrontations are:

• The need for substantial numbers.
• The inherent danger involved.
• The necessity to share the kill if successfully commandeered.

These factors provide valid reasons why hyenas might find it more advantageous to seek other prey options, and fortunately at Londolozi, leopards often present a lucrative alternative.

Hyenas can’t climb too well but this one sure did show it’s determination to get ot the leopard with a carcass.

As most of you are aware, leopards are solitary hunters, relying solely on themselves for hunting and sustenance. With no pride to back them up, any significant injury hindering a leopard’s hunting prowess could jeopardize its survival. Consequently, leopards tend to avoid conflicts, especially with larger predators like hyenas, often opting to flee rather than fight. When defending a kill, leopards retreat over 90% of the time when confronted by a rushing hyena, acknowledging that it’s wiser to abandon the meal than risk injury in a confrontation. The remaining 10% of cases depend on various factors such as the leopard’s size, hunger level, and the size of the hyena. While past observations can offer insights, predicting outcomes with certainty is challenging.

The Ntomi Male hisses at a hyena as he is moved off from the remains of his kill stashed under a nearby bush.

Knowing that leopards often relinquish their kills, hyenas find it more profitable to forage alone. If they chance upon a leopard with an unhoisted carcass, they’re likely to appropriate it without much danger or the need to share it with others. While multiple hyenas may converge on the same leopard kill attracted by the scent, they typically set out for the evening patrol as individuals, as commonly encountered here at Londolozi.

A hyena successfully steals the remains of a carcus from a female leopard.

Hyena clans are tightly knit social units, much like lion prides, demarcating and defending territories. However, when it comes to securing food at Londolozi, it’s often more advantageous for hyenas to operate solo.