What is difference between aardwolf and hyena?

The aardwolf resembles a very thin striped hyena, but with a more slender muzzle, black vertical stripes on a coat of yellowish fur, and a long, distinct mane down the midline of the neck and back. It also has one or two diagonal stripes down the fore- and hind-quarters, along with several stripes on its legs.

Are aardwolf related to hyenas?

Aardwolves are one of four hyena species in the subfamily Hyaenidae, along with spotted hyenas, striped hyenas, and brown hyenas. Like all hyenas, aardwolves’ front legs are longer than their back legs, allowing for a loping, low-energy gait that they can sustain for long distances.

How big is a aardwolf?

2.3 ft.Aardwolf / Length (Adult)

Why does a hyena laugh?

The “laughter” vocalization for which they are known is a high-pitched series of short gigglelike sounds. These sounds, rather than being associated with hyenas having a good time, are generally made when they are threatened or under attack. A hyena may also produce a laughterlike sound when it is frustrated.

What is a hyena baby called?

Baby spotted hyenas, called cubs, are born with black fur that grows out as lighter hair with spots. Spotted hyena clans, which are led by females, often meet at a large den in the middle of their territory. Hyenas have a complicated system of greeting and interacting with each other.

How did aardwolf evolve?

The splits between the lineages leading to the extant forms are old, stretching back to the late Miocene more than nine million years ago. Palaeontological and molecular studies have shown that the aardwolf (Proteles cristatus) diverged from other hyenas some 15–32 million years ago (mya).

Why is the aardwolf important?

Ecologically, the main role of the aardwolf is in control of termite populations, and as part of food chains, being itself consumed by larger carnivores, such as jackals. For humans, the control of the termites can be very important, as termites can be very destructive to farms.

Where does aardwolf live?

southern Africa
Aardwolf occurs throughout eastern and southern Africa, except in the south along the coast. These secretive and entirely harmless carnivores appear to have a wide habitat tolerance with a preference for semi-arid, open plains, savannas, and grasslands where it lives in burrows in the ground.

How much does an aardwolf weigh?

17 lbsAardwolf / Mass