Are Hyenas More Closely Related to Cats Than Dogs?

Hyenas have long puzzled animal lovers and researchers alike. With their dog-like appearance and feline-like behavior, many wonder: Are hyenas more closely related to cats than dogs? The answer may surprise you! Let’s dive deep into the world of hyenas and their surprising evolutionary history.

Understanding Hyenas: Not Quite Dogs, Not Quite Cats

At first glance, hyenas look like wild dogs. They have strong jaws, muscular bodies, and a habit of scavenging. However, despite their canine appearance, hyenas are more closely related to felines than canines. They belong to the order Carnivora, but their family, Hyaenidae, is more closely linked to the Feliformia suborder, which includes cats, mongooses, and civets.

The Feliformia Connection: Why Hyenas Are Closer to Cats

Hyenas, along with cats, belong to the suborder Feliformia. This classification is based on their skeletal structure, auditory bullae (bony capsules enclosing the middle and inner ear), and certain genetic markers. Here’s why hyenas have more in common with felines:

1. Skull and Ear Structure

• Hyenas have a similar skull shape to felines, with powerful jaw muscles designed for crushing bones.
• Their ear structures resemble those of felines rather than canines.

2. Social Behavior

• Unlike dogs, which rely heavily on cooperative hunting, hyenas have a mix of feline and canine behaviors.
• Spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) have complex social structures, much like lions, where females dominate males.

3. Reproductive and Developmental Traits

• Female hyenas have an unusual reproductive system, with external genitalia that resemble males—a trait not seen in dogs or cats but is more aligned with certain feliform species.
• Hyena cubs are born with their eyes open, much like cats, whereas dog pups are born blind and helpless.

How Are Hyenas Different from Dogs and Cats?

While hyenas share ancestry with felines, they also display some unique traits that set them apart from both cats and dogs.

Diet and Hunting Style

Hyenas are famous for scavenging, but they are also skilled hunters. Spotted hyenas, for instance, hunt in packs and take down large prey. Unlike felines, which rely on stealth and agility, hyenas use endurance and teamwork, more similar to wild dogs.

Communication

Hyenas produce a wide range of vocalizations, including the iconic “laugh,” which is actually a sign of stress or social interaction. While cats rely more on scent marking and subtle vocalizations, hyenas have a vocal repertoire closer to that of canines.

Evolutionary History: Where Do Hyenas Fit?

Hyenas evolved from a common ancestor that also gave rise to modern felines. Fossil evidence suggests that early hyena-like creatures were more cat-like in appearance. Over time, some species adapted to scavenging, developing stronger jaws and robust body structures.

Today, there are four species of hyenas:

• Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta): The most well-known and social species.
• Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena): Solitary and nocturnal.
• Brown Hyena (Parahyaena brunnea): Found in desert regions, mainly scavengers.
• Aardwolf (Proteles cristata): A termite-eating hyena that looks very different from its relatives.

Debunking Common Myths About Hyenas

Many misconceptions surround hyenas. Let’s clear up a few myths:

1. Hyenas Are Just Scavengers

False! While they scavenge, spotted hyenas hunt up to 80% of their food. They are apex predators in many ecosystems.

2. Hyenas Are Related to Dogs

Not true! Despite their physical resemblance to canines, hyenas are more closely related to cats and mongooses.

3. Hyenas Are Cowardly

Wrong again! Hyenas are intelligent, strategic, and bold hunters, often challenging lions for food.

Conclusion: The Truth About Hyenas

So, are hyenas more closely related to cats than dogs? Yes! Despite their dog-like appearance, hyenas are genetically closer to felines. Their evolutionary history, skull structure, and behavioral traits align more with the Feliformia suborder, making them distant cousins of cats.

If you’re fascinated by animal evolution, learning about unique creatures like hyenas can change how we view nature. Want to read more about animal biology? Check out this detailed guide on evolutionary adaptations!