The spotted hyena cubs looked on at the game vehicle with wide eyes in the poignant setting filmed by Sander. Their heartfelt expressions gave new meaning to the phrase ‘puppy dog eyes’.
Many game viewers visiting the region of the Kruger National Park around Pretoriuskop Rest Camp and Malelane report seeing hyenas with their cubs.
These incredible sightings have softened the hearts of many game lovers towards hyenas, which haven’t always been showcased in a good light in the media. However, up close, hyenas can be endearing, as Sander discovered when these cubs looked up at his vehicle and provided some memorable filming moments.
Cubs consider vehicle
Hyena cubs are often bold, playful, and endlessly curious. However, even their confidence has limits!
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When Sander’s vehicle rolled past their den, these cubs’ bravado was definitely shaken. Their ears perked up, their heads tilted, and their tiny paws showed a readiness to scramble back to safety if needs be.
Their reaction is a perfect mix of curiosity and caution.
An age of learning and exploration
At this young age, the cubs are still learning what belongs in their world and what could pose a threat. A large, unfamiliar object like a car quickly flips the switch from exploration to retreat.
Fortunately, their mother was nearby and she helped them to remain composed in the situation. There was always Mom to scramble behind if needs be.
As with every young animal, the presence of Mom can make all of the difference. Little animals can become much bolder when their mother is around.
Hyena cubs are born with their eyes open and a full set of sharp milk teeth, which is unusual among mammals. From the very beginning, they are active and competitive, especially with siblings.
In spotted hyenas, cubs are born into a strict social hierarchy that mirrors the complex clan structure of adults. Rank matters early, influencing access to food and protection, and cubs begin establishing dominance through play-fighting that can look surprisingly intense.
They spend much of their early life near the den, where they are protected while adults hunt, using this time to develop social skills, coordination, and confidence.
This hyena clan has built their den close to the road, which has made them highly visible to Sander and other game viewers in the area.
Cubs demonstrate playful bravado
They played alongside their mother and kept an eye on the vehicle. Their playful, curious nature provided a beautiful glimpse into the early life of hyenas.
For Sander and the game viewers with him on the night drive, it must have been hard to leave the hyena family behind to continue with the drive. However, the precious clippings allow for the sighting to be remembered with clarity.
Spotted hyenas are among Africa’s most misunderstood predators. Far from being just scavengers, they are highly skilled hunters, capable of taking down large prey and working together with remarkable coordination. They have strong problem-solving abilities, excellent memories, and complex vocal communication.
Hyperactive Baby Hippo Scares Everyone In The Waterhole
This amusing video was sent to Latest Sightings by Isa Carter. She filmed it at a water hole in South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
I’m bored!
It’s often said that an “only child” can be a challenge, especially for friends and neighbours. And, judging by the events in this video, the same is true in the animal kingdom.
As Isa’s video begins, we see a lone hippo calf standing on the banks of its water hole. In the background, a herd of zebras await their turn to come down for a drink.
Amusing itself
It would seem that it has no one to socialise with. Nevertheless, as it runs around, it appears quite content to burn off the excess energy of youth on it’s own.
After charging around on the water’s edge for a while, it decides to return to the water, seemingly delighted at the big splash it makes.
For a chubby calf, it is surprisingly light-footed. As it takes to the water, it continues to amuse Isa and her companions with its antics. Quite what the rest of the onlookers think is open to debate.
Its mother, seen in the foreground above, seems content to watch the calf at play. Like any harried mum, she is probably enjoying a moment alone.
Thirsty zebras
Meanwhile, when the rambunctious calf took to the water, the zebras headed down to the water to slake their thirst. However, when the calf notices them, it cocks its ears in interest.
Potential playmates?
Consequently, it would seem that the calf saw the new arrivals as potential playmates. Subsequently, the over-enthusiastic calf set off towards the zebras with all the joys of youth.
Unfortunately for the little hippo, his barrelling approach was a bit much for the skittish zebras. In response, they turned and trotted away from the water’s edge.
By the time he emerged from the water, the zebras had retreated to the nearby treeline. Evidently, the hippos’ behaviour was a bit much when all they wanted was a quiet drink.
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Abundant energy
Nonetheless, their disappearance did little to dampen the calf’s enthusiasm. He had energy to spare and was going to burn it off one way or the other. Even if it meant playing with elephant dung…
As Isa’s video draws to an end, the little hippo, undeterred, continued to charge up and down on the lakeshore.
And, despite his protestations of innocent fun, the zebras in the background remained unwilling to join in the fun.
Playful practice
As amusing as the young hippo’s behaviour is, it actually serves an important part of its early development. Playtime for young animals is the time when they will learn the various skills necessary for long-term survival.
Hippos are highly territorial creatures, particularly in their aquatic homes. As such, while the calf may not be doing so intentionally, it is employing various behaviours that in later life will help it assert its territorial dominance.
These include charging towards intruders, patrolling the domain, and gaping jaw displays. Of course, at this stage in its life, it is all in the spirit of play.
However, later in life, these skills may mean the difference between life and death. Whatever the outcome, for us as observers, they’re both fascinating and fun to observe.
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