Lagar Bagar or لگڑ بھگا in English is Hyena. Other names include spotted hyena, striped hyena, aardwolf, hyaeninae, and brown hyena. A hyena is a carnivorous mammal from the Hyaenidae family, native to Africa and Asia. It is recognized for its scavenging habits or behavior, strong jaws, and unique, laugh-like calls.
12 facts of Hyenas (Lagar bagar)
- Strong and powerful jaws
Hyenas have incredibly strong jaws in the animal kingdom, capable of exerting immense pressure to crush bones. This adaptation allows them to access marrow, a rich nutrient source often overlooked by other predators.
2. Species diversity
The Hyaenidae family includes four distinct species: the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), the brown hyena (Parahyaena brunnea), and the aardwolf (Proteles cristata). Each species possesses unique traits and occupies different habitats.
- Scavenging and hunting
While hyenas are famous for their scavenging habits, especially the spotted hyena, they are also skilled hunters. Spotted hyenas, in particular, hunt in packs and can take down large prey like wildebeests and zebras. This dual ability to scavenge and hunt makes them adaptable and successful in diverse environments.
- Social structure
Spotted hyenas live in large, intricate social groups known as clans, which can include up to 80 members. These clans are matriarchal, with females holding dominance over males. Female hyenas lead the clans and enforce strict social hierarchies, essential for the cohesion and survival of the clan.
- Strong vocal communication
Hyenas are known for their unique calls or vocalizations, such as the “laugh” of the spotted hyena. This laugh-like call serves as a means of communication within the clan, often signaling excitement or social status. Additionally, hyenas use whoops, grunts, and various other sounds to communicate over long distances and coordinate group activities.
- They have nocturnal lifestyle
Hyenas are primarily nocturnal creatures or animals, meaning they are most active at night. This nocturnal lifestyle allows them to avoid the heat of the day and reduces competition with other large predators, such as lions.
- They have strong digestive system
Hyenas have naturally highly efficient digestive systems, enabling them to consume and digest almost every part of their quarry or prey, including bones, skin, and hooves. This efficiency minimizes waste and maximizes nutrient extraction from their food.
- Longevity of hyenas
In the wild or forest, hyenas can live up to 25 years, though their lifespan is often shortened due to environmental pressures and conflicts with humans. In captivity, where they are shielded from these dangers, they can live even longer.
- Intelligence and problem-solving abilities
Hyenas are highly intelligent creatures; they are known for their problem-solving abilities and complex social behaviors. Research has demonstrated that they can count, understand social relationships, and use strategic thinking to tackle challenges, which is vital for their survival in the wild.
- Striped hyena behavior
The striped hyena is more solitary and nocturnal compared to the social spotted hyena. It is often observed alone or in pairs and has a more diverse or change diet, including fruits, small animals, and carrion.
- Hyenas birth and development
Baby hyenas are born with their eyes open and their teeth already erupted, which enables them to be more independent from a young age. Hyena cubs stay with their skilled mother for up to two years, they learn essential survival skills.
- Hyenas speed and agility
Hyenas are adept runners, capable of reaching speeds up to 35 to 37 miles per hour (55 to 60 kilometers per hour). This agility and speed make them effective hunters, able to cover vast distances in search of food.