The Enigmatic Brown Hyena

And so it happened that these co-owners stumbled across this beauty, while it was taking a dust bath at the end of the day.
The brown hyena (Parahyaena brunnea), or strandwolf, is a nocturnal scavenger known for its long shaggy coat, pointed ears, and striped legs. Unlike the better-known spotted hyena, brown hyenas are generally solitary but can form small clans. Their sophisticated social structure and communication methods, involving vocalisations, postures, and scent markings, showcase their complex behaviour. 

Some of you may have read Mark and Delia Owens’ book, “Cry of the Kalahari”, which eloquently captures the allure of the brown hyena. The Owens spent seven years in the Kalahari Desert, documenting wildlife, including the brown hyena. Their first encounter, a magical culmination of months of research, highlighted the hyena’s crucial role in the ecosystem and fostered a deep appreciation for this species.

The brown hyena symbolises resilience and adaptability, surviving in harsh environments. Their rarity makes them mysterious and often misunderstood. Places like Limpopo-Lipadi play a crucial role in their conservation, so a visit to Limpopo-Lipadi offers a chance to connect with these fascinating creatures and to support our mission to preserve them for future generations.