Dhole Size vs. Spotted Hyena Size

Attribute	Dhole Size	Spotted Hyena Size
Weight	12-20 kg	40-80 kg
Length	90-112 cm	95-165 cm
Height	40-50 cm	70-90 cm
Color	Reddish-brown	Yellowish-gray

Physical Characteristics

Dholes, also known as Asiatic wild dogs, are medium-sized canids with a slender build. They typically weigh between 12 to 18 kilograms and stand about 45 to 55 centimeters tall at the shoulder. Dholes have a distinctive reddish coat with white markings on their chest, throat, and legs. In contrast, spotted hyenas are much larger and more robust animals. They can weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 kilograms and stand around 70 to 90 centimeters tall at the shoulder. Spotted hyenas have a sandy-colored coat with dark spots covering their bodies.

Habitat and Distribution

Dholes are primarily found in South and Southeast Asia, inhabiting dense forests, grasslands, and scrublands. They are known for their social nature, living in packs of up to 12 individuals. Dholes are skilled hunters and often prey on deer, wild boar, and other small to medium-sized mammals. On the other hand, spotted hyenas are native to sub-Saharan Africa, where they occupy a wide range of habitats, including savannas, grasslands, and woodlands. Spotted hyenas are highly adaptable and can thrive in both open plains and dense vegetation.

Social Behavior

Dholes are cooperative hunters, working together to take down prey much larger than themselves. They communicate through a series of whistles, yips, and growls, which help them coordinate their hunting strategies. Dholes are known for their strong social bonds within the pack, with individuals caring for and protecting one another. Spotted hyenas, on the other hand, live in large clans that can consist of up to 80 individuals. They have a complex social structure with a strict hierarchy, led by a dominant female. Spotted hyenas are also skilled hunters and scavengers, often stealing kills from other predators.

Reproduction and Parenting

Dholes typically breed once a year, with females giving birth to litters of 4 to 6 pups. Both parents participate in raising the young, regurgitating food for the pups and teaching them how to hunt. Dhole pups reach maturity at around 1 to 2 years of age and may stay with their natal pack or disperse to join other packs. Spotted hyenas have a longer breeding season, with females able to conceive at any time of the year. They give birth to 1 to 4 cubs, which are raised in communal dens within the clan. Spotted hyena cubs are highly precocial, able to walk and even eat solid food within hours of birth.

Ecological Role

Dholes play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems by controlling the populations of herbivores. As apex predators, dholes help prevent overgrazing and habitat degradation by keeping prey numbers in check. Their presence also benefits other species that share their habitat, such as birds of prey and scavengers. Spotted hyenas, on the other hand, are known as nature's cleanup crew, scavenging on carcasses left behind by other predators. They play a vital role in recycling nutrients and reducing the spread of disease by consuming carrion that would otherwise go to waste.