Do hyenas eat their own babies?

Hyenas, often misunderstood and unfairly depicted as ruthless scavengers, exhibit remarkable maternal instincts and intricate social behaviors. The inquiry into whether hyenas consume their offspring does not yield a straightforward answer. While hyenas do not intentionally harm or eat their young, certain behaviors within their species may be misinterpreted as such actions. Delving into the subtleties of these behaviors reveals the intricate dynamics within hyena families.

When hyena cubs are born, they enter the world with open eyes and sharp teeth, enabling them to engage with their environment immediately. Sibling rivalry can escalate to fatal outcomes in cases where hyena litters consist of multiple cubs, particularly two. This phenomenon, termed fratricide, occurs when one cub fatally injures its sibling shortly after birth. The stronger cub prevails over the weaker one in a struggle for survival, initiating competition for resources from the moment of birth. This harsh yet natural process ensures that the surviving cub has a greater chance of thriving. Occasionally, the victorious cub may even consume its deceased sibling. Although this behavior may be unsettling to humans, it underscores the harsh realities of survival in the animal kingdom.

It is crucial to recognize that predatory species like hyenas sometimes consume their deceased offspring in wild environments. This behavior does not stem from a desire to “eat” the offspring in a conventional sense but serves as a means of regaining losses and safeguarding the remains of the cub. By consuming the body, the mother prevents other scavengers from desecrating it, offering a final act of protection and reverence for her young one’s memory. This act is also viewed as a symbolic closure or acknowledgment of loss by figuratively returning the cub to its origins.

This process starkly contrasts with common misconceptions when people inquire about whether hyenas “eat their babies.” Hyenas do not kill or devour their offspring out of malice but instead make instinctual decisions aligned with survival and nurturing instincts. Understanding these behaviors helps dispel misunderstandings surrounding hyenas by showcasing them as creatures driven by intricate social bonds and innate survival mechanisms rather than cruelty towards their young ones.