Coyote vs. Spotted Hyena

Attribute	Coyote	Spotted Hyena
Scientific Name	Canis latrans	Crocuta crocuta
Family	Canidae	Hyaenidae
Habitat	Various habitats including forests, deserts, and grasslands	Grasslands, savannas, and woodlands
Diet	Primarily carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, and fruits	Opportunistic carnivores, scavenging and hunting large prey
Size	Smaller and lighter than spotted hyenas	Larger and heavier than coyotes
Social Structure	Live in family groups or pairs	Live in large social groups called clans

Physical Attributes

Coyotes are medium-sized canines with a slender build, weighing between 20-50 pounds. They have a bushy tail, pointed ears, and a long snout. Their fur color can vary from gray to reddish-brown, depending on their habitat. In contrast, Spotted Hyenas are larger and more robust, weighing between 90-190 pounds. They have a distinctive sloping back, powerful jaws, and a short mane along their neck. Their fur is typically a sandy color with dark spots.

Habitat and Range

Coyotes are found throughout North and Central America, from deserts to forests to urban areas. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments. Spotted Hyenas, on the other hand, are native to sub-Saharan Africa. They prefer savannas and grasslands but can also be found in woodlands and mountains. Their range is more limited compared to coyotes, as they are restricted to Africa.

Social Structure

Coyotes are typically solitary animals or live in small family groups consisting of a mated pair and their offspring. They are territorial and will defend their territory from other coyotes. Spotted Hyenas, on the other hand, live in large social groups called clans. These clans can consist of up to 80 individuals and are led by a dominant female. Hyenas are known for their complex social hierarchy and cooperative hunting behavior.

Diet and Hunting Behavior

Coyotes are opportunistic feeders and have a varied diet that includes small mammals, birds, insects, and fruits. They are also known to scavenge for food and will eat carrion. Spotted Hyenas are primarily scavengers but are also skilled hunters. They have powerful jaws and teeth that allow them to crush bones, making them efficient scavengers. Hyenas will often steal kills from other predators like lions or leopards.

Reproduction and Offspring

Coyotes typically mate for life and have a monogamous breeding system. They breed once a year, usually in late winter or early spring, and the female gives birth to a litter of 4-7 pups after a gestation period of around 60 days. The pups are cared for by both parents and will stay with the family group for several months before dispersing. Spotted Hyenas have a more complex mating system, with females being larger and more dominant than males. They have a pseudo-penis, which makes mating and giving birth more challenging. Hyena cubs are born with their eyes open and will join the clan's communal den shortly after birth.

Communication and Vocalizations

Coyotes are known for their distinctive howls, which they use to communicate with other coyotes in the area. They also use barks, yips, and growls to convey different messages. Spotted Hyenas are highly vocal animals and produce a range of sounds, including whoops, giggles, and growls. They use vocalizations to establish dominance within the clan, communicate during hunts, and defend their territory.

Interactions with Humans

Coyotes have adapted well to human presence and can be found in urban areas, where they may come into conflict with pets or livestock. They are generally shy and elusive but may become more bold in search of food. Spotted Hyenas have a more negative reputation due to their scavenging behavior and association with death in African folklore. They are often portrayed as villains in popular culture, which has led to misconceptions about their behavior.