A growing concern over changing feeding habits of hyenas is troubling the Kenya Wildlife Service officials in the Aberdares National Park. One of the worlds most famous scavenger is targeting buffalo’s private parts.
Hyenas rely on other animals leftovers for food. Scarcity of hunters such as lions in the Aberdares is pushing these animals to find other sources of food. Loosely hanging buffalo testicles and tails are their latest delicacy. The parks chief warden reported that ten of buffaloes have been spotted roaming the vast park with deformities, after hyenas chewed them off. She attributed the problem to lack of predators which disrupts the food chain placing hyenas out of their scavenging role.
Although hyenas have one of the strongest jaws, they aren’t able to kill big prey like buffaloes, preferring to sneak in at night and eat their victims while still alive. They hunt small animals but their lack of speed puts them at a disadvantage when it comes to catching more agile live prey like gazelles. Slower and less mobile buffaloes are the perfect target.
Officials are considering introduction of predators to balance the food chain in the park. This will place hyenas in their rightful position as scavenges, easing their survival as well as allowing buffaloes to sire.