Spotted hyenas have exceptionally complex social lives in female-dominated clans, and their welfare is affected by human-wildlife conflict, poisoning, and the persecution that misunderstands their ecological role.
Hyena welfare is compromised by their reputation as scavengers and vermin, which has historically justified their persecution without welfare consideration. In reality, they are complex social animals with intricate clan politics, long-lasting social bonds, and sophisticated cognitive abilities. Cubs in low-ranking families experience reduced food access and social disadvantage from birth. Poisoning — often with agricultural chemicals — causes prolonged, agonizing death. The welfare case for reconsidering human-hyena conflict management and eliminating indiscriminate poisoning is strong for animals with documented social complexity and cognitive capability.