Hyenas live in a complex society governed by intricate rules. They are considered more intelligent and dangerous than other carnivores, even lions.
(Video: Maasai Sighting).
Hyenas are perhaps the greatest threat to lions on the savannah. Although these “scavengers” are smaller in size, they are no less ferocious and often outnumber their rivals.
In a short video captured in Kruger National Park, two lions are engrossed in feasting on their prey by a waterhole when they are surrounded by a pack of hyenas.
Initially, the lions attempt to assert their dominance through sheer strength. A female lion charges directly into the pack of hyenas, momentarily causing them to scatter in fear.
However, the hyena pack quickly regains its composure. They establish a perimeter and demonstrate their readiness to attack the lions if necessary.
Faced with the boldness and overwhelming numbers of the hyena pack, the two lions are forced to retreat, abandoning their meal.
The camera captures a lion as it watches the hungry hyenas tear apart its prey. The animal can only look on in despair before returning to its pride.
Hyenas can be considered the number one nemesis of lions on the savannah, as they frequently clash to protect or seize food sources (Photo: Getty).
Hyenas are the most common carnivores in Africa. There are four species of hyenas: brown, spotted, striped, and the lesser-known aardwolf. While the spotted hyena is the largest species, all hyenas possess large heads, strong jaws, and long forelimbs.
As cunning and sharp predators, these animals primarily follow lions and leopards, then take over their food sources for survival. In these encounters, hyenas rarely fall victim due to their bold nature, sharp teeth, and overwhelming numbers.
With their inherent cunning combined with the strength of their pack, hyenas remain a constant threat on the savannah to other wildlife. When faced with them, other animals tend to hesitate and retreat to ensure their survival.
Animal researchers investigating hyena intelligence are still trying to uncover its limits. Hyenas live in a complex society governed by intricate rules. They are regarded as more intelligent and dangerous than other carnivores, even lions.
