Hyena

The hyena is perhaps Kenya's most vicious predator. They hunt in large packs chasing down their prey at speeds up to 40 miles per hour. Their strong jaws allow them to tear their food apart easily and bite through bone. Any animal they can bring down is a potential food. Hyenas are not afraid to attack humans or even other hyenas. There are two types, the spotted and striped hyenas. The spotted hyena stands up to 3 feet tall with a sloping back. It has a redish brown to gray color with dark spots. The striped hyena is slightly smaller, measuring about 30 inches tall. It has long hair and a dorsal mane. Its gray color is marked with vertical black stripes. The ears are pointed. Striped hyenas are nocturnal and less likely to be seen than the spotted hyena.