Aardwolf vs. Hyena — What's the Difference?

The aardwolf is part of the hyena family but differs significantly in diet and behavior. It primarily feeds on termites and other insects, using its long, sticky tongue to capture prey. In contrast, other hyenas, such as the spotted, brown, and striped hyenas, have powerful jaws suited to crushing bones and are known for both scavenging and hunting larger prey.

The aardwolf resembles a small, less robust hyena with distinctive vertical stripes and a mane down its back, which it can raise as a threat display. True hyenas, particularly the spotted hyena, are more robust, lack significant striping, and are equipped with a strong build that helps in their scavenging lifestyle.

Aardwolves are more solitary or live in monogamous pairs, with their interactions mostly limited to mating pairs and their offspring. Other hyenas, especially spotted hyenas, exhibit complex social structures and live in large, matriarchal clans where social interactions are intricate and hierarchical.

Habitat preferences also differ; aardwolves are found primarily in dry, open areas such as savannas and grasslands across Eastern and Southern Africa. They are nocturnal, using the cover of night to avoid predators. In contrast, other hyenas are more adaptable and can inhabit a variety of environments, including savannas, forests, and even mountainous terrains across Africa and into parts of Asia.

Conservation status is another point of divergence. The aardwolf faces fewer threats and is classified as "Least Concern" by conservation authorities due to its widespread range and stable population. Other hyenas, especially the brown hyena, face more significant challenges due to habitat loss and human conflict, leading to their "Near Threatened" status in some regions.