Scientists have discovered that spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) utilize advanced communication techniques while playing, as reported on July 8, 2026, in a study conducted in Tanzania and South Africa. These large predators exhibit complex behaviors, using both facial expressions and vocalizations to signal their intentions during play fighting, ensuring that misunderstandings are minimized.
Advanced Communication in Spotted Hyenas
The research highlights that hyenas engage in play throughout their lives, with juveniles playing more frequently than adults. However, adult hyenas also find joy in play, particularly in water. This playful interaction demands sophisticated communication to prevent escalation among these powerful animals.
According to the study, the most common visual signal among hyenas is the “Relaxed Open Mouth” (ROM), which conveys peaceful intentions. This signal is typically displayed within the visual range of the playmate to ensure understanding. The study emphasizes that vocal signals, which have been less studied, play a crucial role in group play scenarios.
Vocalizations Enhance Playful Interactions
Hyenas were observed to combine the ROM signal with various vocalizations when engaging in group play. Oliver Höner, co-author of the study, explained, “When several hyenas are playing together and they cannot be sure that all participants can see the ROM, they employ additional signals in the form of play-specific vocalizations that are registered and understood at all times by all participants.”
The research team documented a total of 13 different vocalizations used during play, five of which had never been described before. These nuanced sounds appear to serve as a compensatory mechanism for the lack of direct eye contact in larger groups, showcasing the hyenas' adaptability in communication.
Implications for Understanding Animal Behavior
This study sheds light on the cognitive and social abilities of spotted hyenas, indicating their capacity to adjust communication methods based on social contexts. The findings suggest that the interplay of visual and auditory signals is essential for maintaining social harmony during play, further enriching our understanding of animal behavior.
- Publication: Martina Francesconi et al, Eyes, ears, and play in the wild: flexible use of sensory channels in spotted hyena communication, Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology (2026).
- DOI: 10.1007/s00265-026-03711-x
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