Hyaena hyaena (Striped Hyena)

The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is a medium-sized mammal found in parts of Africa and the Middle East. Recognizable by its coarse coat with dark vertical stripes and a bushy tail, it has powerful jaws for crushing bones. Primarily nocturnal, it scavenges carcasses but can also hunt small animals and insects. Adaptable to dry, rocky environments, it plays a vital role in ecosystems by cleaning up carrion. Although shy and elusive, it has cultural significance in various regions and is currently listed as near threatened due to habitat loss and hunting pressures.