The hyena cub submits squealing with excitement as her mother returns from a long hunt.

All day, they patiently waited. While she and some pack members went hunting, one adult hyena stayed behind to guard the den. Not far off, a pride of lions, their most formidable adversaries, approached. Yet, the den remained well-hidden, and the guardian stood ready to divert the lions if they ventured too close. The pride settled at a distance, their occasional roars echoing across the savannah. Having feasted the night before, they sought shade from the relentless African sun, unaware or indifferent to the scent of hyenas nearby. The guardian, sensing their presence, cautiously warned the cubs to stay low.

Earlier, we had positioned ourselves on the side of the earthy mound housing the den. Eventually, curiosity had lured one cub out, who cautiously observed us as we remained still watching back. The adult hyena closely monitored our presence regularly, occasionally sniffing in our direction. Satisfied over time that we posed no threat, he moved forward, positioning himself between us and the den, and laid down. The curious cub followed hesitantly, drawn to a scent nearby, but a few seconds later stopped and looked in one direction, ears pricked.

Suddenly, the guardian's head shot up, alert to a distant sound he recognised. Instantly, he stood up, and the cub, excited, moved forward. A joyous squeal and cackle erupted as the matriarch broke through the bush and arrived. They met a few paces away, engaging in a frenetic dance of reunion. With more squeals and laughs, the cub collapsed under the matriarch, awaiting attention. Satisfied with the greeting from the male guardian, she proceeded to acknowledge her sibling with great enthusiasm.

These hyenas remind me of the importance of greeting and validation. Recognising each other in many ways signifies our value to ourselves and those around us. Witnessing this moment made me realise its significance in the broader scope of life — it speaks of bonding and belonging, it fills the soul with joy and pleasure, and, perhaps most tellingly, it assures us that we are okay.

Spotted Hyena Fact Sheet

Scientific Name: Crocuta crocuta

Family: Hyaenidae

Classification: Mammal

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Lifespan (in the wild): Approximately 25 years

Weight: 50-86 kg

Body Size: Up to 2 meters

Top Speed: 65 km/h

Diet: Carnivore

Habitat: Grassland and savanna

Raw Africa Collection

Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, and the life giving.

This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful, gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles, and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.