International Hyena Day, celebrated annually on 27 April, is giving wildlife lovers a chance to rethink everything they thought they knew about one of Africa’s most misunderstood predators.

At the Lion & Safari Park, located in the world-famous Cradle of Humankind, conservation teams are using the occasion to challenge long-standing myths surrounding hyenas while highlighting their intelligence, complex social behaviour, and critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Home to both spotted hyenas and the much rarer striped hyenas, the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating animals up close while learning from experienced field guides.

According to Shandor Larenty, many of the misconceptions about hyenas have been fuelled by films and outdated stereotypes.

“Hyenas are far more than the villains they’re often made out to be in movies. They are clever, social, and essential to the balance of the African savanna,”.

says Larenty

One of the most common myths is that hyenas are merely scavengers stealing food from lions. In reality, spotted hyenas are highly effective hunters that often catch more prey than lions in certain ecosystems. Working together in coordinated clans, they rely on teamwork, endurance, and intelligence to wear down prey during hunts.

Another misconception surrounds the famous “laugh” associated with hyenas. Larenty explains that the sound is not laughter at all, but rather a sophisticated form of communication used to express excitement, frustration, or to call clan members together during hunts and feeding sessions.

The social structure of spotted hyenas is also unlike most other predators. Female hyenas dominate the clan hierarchy, with females being larger, stronger, and more powerful than males. The highest-ranking female leads the clan, making spotted hyenas one of the few truly matriarchal societies in the animal kingdom.

Visitors to the park can also learn about the differences between spotted and striped hyenas. While spotted hyenas are larger and highly social animals living in clans, striped hyenas are smaller, more elusive, and tend to live solitary lives. Their striped coats and distinctive mane make them visually unique among Africa’s predators.

Larenty also addressed the stereotype that hyenas are cowardly animals.

“This is one of the biggest myths. Hyenas are actually very brave and intelligent animals that will fiercely defend their territory and cubs, even against much larger predators,”.

he explains

Despite their reputation, hyenas are generally wary of humans and are not naturally aggressive unless threatened or habituated to people. Like all wild animals, they should simply be respected and observed responsibly.

Beyond their hunting abilities, hyenas perform a vital environmental service as nature’s cleanup crew. Their incredibly powerful jaws and digestive systems allow them to consume bones and carcasses that many other predators leave behind, helping recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem and reducing the spread of disease.

Larenty believes International Hyena Day offers the perfect opportunity for people to replace fear with understanding.

“Hyenas are incredibly intelligent, complex, and often misunderstood animals. Whether it’s the powerful spotted hyenas with their complex clan dynamics or the more elusive striped hyenas, they play a crucial role in the African ecosystem,”.

he says

Guests visiting the Lion & Safari Park can experience guided game drives where both species of hyena can be seen while learning more about their behaviour, social structures, and ecological importance.

For more information or to book a visit, head to Lion & Safari Park Official Website or follow the park on Lion & Safari Park Facebook and Lion & Safari Park Instagram.