Hyena Sounds

What sound does a hyena make?

Spotted hyenas are famous for their 'laugh' — a high, giggling cackle that sounds spookily human. But the laugh isn't about jokes: hyenas giggle when they're excited or nervous, especially when squabbling over food. The pitch of the giggle even tells other hyenas the caller's age and status.

The hyena's main long-distance call is the whoop: a rising 'whoo-oop!' repeated up to 20 times that can carry five kilometres across the savanna. Whoops rally clan members, announce territory, and help mothers find their cubs.

About the Hyena

Hyenas are carnivorous mammals native to Africa and parts of Asia. Despite their dog-like appearance, they are more closely related to cats. Hyenas are known for their distinctive vocalizations, including their famous 'laugh'. They are highly intelligent and social animals, living in complex clan structures. Contrary to popular belief, hyenas are skilled hunters, not just scavengers. They have incredibly strong jaws and can digest bones and hides. Spotted hyenas, the most common species, have a matriarchal society where females are larger and more dominant than males. Hyenas play a crucial role in their ecosystems by controlling prey populations and cleaning up carrion.

Hyena questions

What sound does a hyena make?

Hyenas whoop ('whoo-oop!') to call their clan over long distances and giggle — the famous 'laugh' — when excited or nervous around food.

Do hyenas really laugh?

The giggle sounds like laughter but signals excitement or submission, not amusement. Its pitch tells other hyenas the giggler's age and rank in the clan.