In this article, we’ll explore ten animals that share similarities with the striped hyena. You might be surprised at how closely related some of them are or how different they can be despite their similar looks. Each of these animals has its unique traits and quirks, which makes them special in their own right. So, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the wild world of striped hyenas and their counterparts!
1. Spotted Hyena
The spotted hyena is often the most recognized among hyenas. With its robust build and distinctive spotted coat, it’s a stark contrast to the striped variety. These hyenas are social animals, often forming large groups called clans. Their vocalizations range from laughs to whoops, making them quite noisy!
You might be wondering how to tell them apart. While the striped hyena is generally smaller and has a more slender frame, the spotted hyena flaunts a larger, bulkier body. Additionally, the spotted hyena’s coat features random spots rather than stripes, which is one of the easiest ways to differentiate the two.
2. Aardwolf
The aardwolf shares some similarities with the striped hyena, but don’t let its name fool you—it’s not a wolf at all! Aardwolves are nocturnal and have a diet that mainly consists of termites. They have a more elongated snout compared to striped hyenas and lack the robust build of their cousins.
What sets them apart visually is their striped body, which resembles that of the striped hyena. However, aardwolves are smaller, possess a more slender frame, and have large ears that give them a cartoonish look. Spotting these differences can be tricky, but once you do, you’ll appreciate the uniqueness of each animal.
3. Dingo
The dingo is Australia’s wild dog and offers a fascinating comparison to the striped hyena. Dingoes are known for their adaptability and have a coat that ranges from pale yellow to reddish-brown. Unlike hyenas, dingoes are canids, and while they share some characteristics like being opportunistic scavengers, they have a different social structure.
Dingoes typically live in smaller family units, unlike the clan-oriented lifestyle of hyenas. You can tell them apart by their lean, more dog-like appearance and distinct facial structure. While both animals have a wild look, the dingo’s ears are more pointed and its snout is longer.
4. African Wild Dog
The African wild dog (or painted wolf) is another fascinating relative of the striped hyena. Known for their colorful coats with patches of black, yellow, and white, they stand out in the savannah landscape. African wild dogs are incredibly social and often hunt in coordinated packs.
When comparing them to striped hyenas, consider their hunting habits. While hyenas often scavenge, wild dogs are skilled hunters. They have large, rounded ears and a slender body, which is quite different from the striped hyena’s robust frame. Their unique fur patterns also make them easy to identify.
5. Jackal
The jackal is a small to medium-sized canid that shares some environmental niches with the striped hyena. Jackals can often be found scavenging in the same areas that hyenas do. They have a sleek body and bushy tail, with colors ranging from golden to black.
To distinguish a jackal from a striped hyena, focus on size and shape. Jackals are much smaller and have a more elongated snout. They also lack the distinctive stripes of the hyena. While they may share habitats and some dietary habits, their social structures are quite different.
6. Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacine)
The Tasmanian tiger, or thylacine, is an extinct carnivorous marsupial that used to roam Tasmania and parts of Australia. Its distinctive striped back resembles that of the striped hyena, but that’s where the similarities end. Thylacines had a more slender body and a head that resembled a dog.
If you’re comparing these two, keep in mind the striking differences in their limbs and body shape. The thylacine had a more elongated, sleek build compared to the sturdier striped hyena. Sadly, the last known thylacine died in captivity in 1936, but its legacy reminds us of the importance of conservation.
7. Red Fox
The red fox is another fascinating animal that, while very different, shares some traits with the striped hyena. Known for its bushy tail and pointed ears, the red fox has a reddish coat and is adaptable to various environments. They are smaller and have a more slender and agile build.
When examining their behavior, red foxes are cunning hunters, primarily hunting small mammals and birds. In contrast to the striped hyena’s scavenging habits, the fox is more of a solo hunter. Despite these differences, the reddish tones in their fur might lead to some visual similarities, especially from a distance.
8. Sambar Deer
The sambar deer might seem like an unusual comparison, but they inhabit some of the same territories as striped hyenas. With their large size and shaggy coat, they can sometimes resemble hyenas when seen quickly in the brush. However, the similarities largely end with appearance.
While the striped hyena is a predator and scavenger, the sambar deer is a herbivore. They are generally more solitary than hyenas, and their large, antlered heads are a clear distinction. This comparison highlights the variety of adaptations that different species have developed over time.
9. Cheetah
The cheetah is perhaps one of the most iconic wild cats, renowned for its speed. Their slender, athletic body is built for running, which contrasts sharply with the heavier build of a striped hyena. Cheetahs have spots instead of stripes, providing a unique look.
In terms of behavior, cheetahs are solitary hunters, rarely interacting with others outside of mating or raising cubs. This is in stark contrast to the social structure of striped hyenas, which thrive in packs. While they both share a carnivorous diet, their hunting techniques and physical adaptations are quite distinct.
10. Ocelot
Finally, let’s talk about the ocelot. This cat, found in the Americas, has a beautiful spotted coat that might remind you of hyenas at first glance. However, ocelots are often smaller and have a more graceful, cat-like appearance.
Ocelots are solitary hunters, primarily active at night, and have a different type of diet compared to hyenas. While both animals may share some habitats, you can easily tell them apart by their size and the distinct patterns on their fur. Ocelots are a great reminder of the diversity found within the animal kingdom!
As we wrap this up, it’s clear that the striped hyena has some fascinating relatives. Whether you’re observing them in the wild or learning from afar, appreciating these creatures helps us understand the intricate web of life we share. Each animal brings its own story and uniqueness, even if they seem similar at first glance. So, the next time you hear about the striped hyena, remember all the incredible animals that share its world!
