Species profile
About this species
The striped hyena is a medium-sized carnivore found across North Africa, the Middle East, & South Asia. It is distinguished by its pale grey or yellowish-brown coat marked with dark vertical stripes, a prominent mane along its back, & relatively large ears. It is primarily nocturnal & solitary, feeding on carrion, small vertebrates, & fruit.
Striped hyenas occupy a wide range of arid & semi-arid habitats including scrublands, dry woodlands, grasslands, & rocky hillsides, typically in regions with low human disturbance & access to carrion or prey.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Striped Hyena with us in Kenya.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles & Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Night-time hours are optimal, particularly in the first few hours after sunset. The dry season in their range - roughly October to March - can improve sighting frequency near water sources.
Use a camera with strong low-light capability & a wide aperture lens, as striped hyenas are most active after dark. A red-filtered torch or infrared spotlight can illuminate subjects without disturbing their natural behaviour. Position yourself downwind near known scavenging sites or water sources to increase your chances of a close encounter.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Striped Hyena
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.