Social dominance and feeding patterns of spotted hyaenas

摘要: Abstract In some parts of East Africa, spotted hyaenas ( Crocuta crocuta ) live in large groups and at high population densities, scramble competition among clan members during feeding carcasses is reported. By contrast, the Namib Desert southwestern Africa small low densities. When assembled carcasses, show linear dominance hierarchies. Adult females outrank adult males usually feed one a time or with their dependent offspring. Feeding rates are approximately equal to those reported but significantly more slowly. Thus lower-ranking individuals eventually gain access excluded from smaller ones. We relate these patterns food consumption possible evolutionary pathways social hunting by hyaenas.