Feeding ecology and its influence on social organization in Brown hyenas (Hyaena brunnea, Thunberg) of the Central Kalahari Desert

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Abstract
Summary: (1) Observations are presented on the diet, feeding habits, hunting and foraging behaviour of Brown hyaenas of the Central Kalahari.(2) The remains of kills left by other predators are the single most important food item in the Brown hyaena's diet. The diet also consists of small scavenged items, small prey such as rodents which the hyaena itself kills, and wild fruits.(3) Brown hyaenas hunt and scavenge small items solitarily, but congregate for communal scavenging of the large kills left by other predators.(4) Individual hyaenas are not territorial and there is great overlap in home ranges. They use common pathways and frequently meet to socialize while foraging.(5) Resident adults form a group with a social hierarchy maintained through neck‐biting, muzzle‐wrestling, chasing, and other social interactions. Subadult hyaenas often leave the group when approximately 22 months old.(6) Brown hyaenas have a complex system of communication including visual displays, social interactions, vocalizations, and extensive pasting. These are described.(7) Since carrion is an important source of food, Brown hyaenas have developed distinct relationships with other predators and these are described.(8) In conclusion, the Brown hyaena exhibits a highly flexible social system, foraging and hunting small items solitarily and congregating for the common utilization of a large carcass. The social organization is therefore influenced by the feeding ecology.