The world recently marked International Hyena Day, which is celebrated every year on April 27^th.The day is dedicated to highlighting the important role they play in the ecosystem. During a recent visit in Maasai Mara, nature took its course when a giraffe died of old age. This was confirmed by knowledgeable wildlife vets and local wardens. According to them, there were no signs of attacks by humans or other predators, or of disease. From the way the body lay, it seemed to have fallen, but wasn’t able to stand due to being weak after hitting its head on the ground. Additionally, the giraffe had teeth missing, probably due to old age. 

Having watched and heard scavengers on a kill, I wanted to have a recording of the same. Because these species are mainly active at night, I placed my recorder in a tree next to the carcass in order to capture the sounds of the feeding frenzy that would follow. As expected, the carcass soon attracted scavengers as the day progressed; jackals and hyenas showed up to survey the scene. They would try to bite off some meat, before running away.

Soon, the otherwise silent night was filled with the spooky symphony of hyenas laughing and shrieking, while the jackals barked and growled at each other as they all tried to have a piece of the carcass. As it was a huge giraffe, this nocturnal feast went on for the rest of the week.

On the fourth day, the carcass was almost stripped to the bone, proving how quickly the hyenas and jackals can finish a carcass. This event was an emotional reminder that in the midst of nature’s beauty and tranquility, there also exists an undeniable air of sadness and unpredictability. Scavengers’ role in consuming the remains of dead animals is vital for maintaining ecological balance, preventing the spread of disease, and ensuring the continuity of the circle of life!