Spotted hyena, scientifically known as Crocuta crocuta, is a species of carnivorous mammal belonging to the Hyaenidae family. It is one of the four species of hyenas that exist in the world and is the largest of all of them. Its name "speckled" is due to the dark brown spots that adorn its fur, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Physical characteristics:
Size: Spotted hyenas can measure up to 1.6 meters in length and 85 centimeters in height at the shoulders. Males tend to be slightly larger than females.
Weight: Males can weigh around 60-80kg, while females are generally smaller, weighing around 55-70kg.
Coat: Their coat is thick and short, usually light brown in color with dark spots covering their body. The lower part of their neck and abdomen is usually lighter.
Head: They have a large head with rounded and pointed ears.
Jaws and Teeth: Spotted hyenas have a powerful jaw with an extremely strong bite. Their teeth are adapted to crush bone, making them specialists in carrion.
Behavior: They are social animals and live in groups known as clans, which can be made up of up to 80 individuals. Spotted hyenas are highly intelligent animals and excellent hunters, although they also feed on carrion and are known for their ability to dismantle animal remains left behind by other predators.
Habitat: Found primarily in sub-Saharan African regions, occupying a wide variety of habitats including savannah, grassland, and open woodland.
Conservation Status: The spotted hyena is not endangered and is considered a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many species, they face threats such as habitat loss and illegal hunting.
Despite their unattractive appearance and reputation for scavengers, spotted hyenas play an essential role in the ecosystem by removing carcasses of dead animals and helping to maintain balance in the food chain. They are also social animals and have complex behaviors in their interaction with clan members and in their hunting strategies.
Approximate measurements of the set:
Scale 1:24 - 135mm
