How can the different species of hyaenas be distinguished from one another?
Due to the downward slope of the back and loping gallop, striped hyaenas are frequently mistaken for the spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta) when seen at night. In daylight, the spotted pelage of the larger hyaena clearly distinguishes the spotted hyaena from the striped hyaena (Hyaena hyaena). The relatively short, dart tail of the spotted hyaena contrasts with the longer, lighter-colored tail of the striped hyaena, and thus may be diagnostic at night. In silhouette, the short, rounded ears of the spotted hyaena also contrast with the long, pointed ears of the striped and brown hyaena (Parahyaena brunnea). In the day, the aardwolf (Proteles cristatus) is frequently confused with the striped hyaena. However, the large differences in body size between the two species is diagnostic, as is the relatively long, thin snout of the aardwolf. It is obvious from the shape of the head and neck that teh aardwolf is not built for eating carrion or cracking bones, as are its three extant relatives. Th
