Spotted hyenas are highly intelligent, matriarchal social carnivores whose complex group dynamics require sophisticated zoo management. Meeting their social needs is central to their welfare.
Hyena welfare in captivity requires maintaining appropriately complex social groups that reflect their naturally matriarchal clan structure. These highly intelligent animals suffer profound welfare deficits when isolated or in groups too small to support natural social dynamics. Cognitive enrichment that challenges their problem-solving abilities is essential. Conflict management within groups requires understanding of individual social positions and history. Foraging enrichment including puzzle feeders, buried food, and varied presentations engages their natural intelligent foraging behavior. Few zoos can provide the resources needed for optimal hyena welfare, raising questions about the appropriateness of maintaining this species widely.