Habitat:
Deserts, savannas, grasslands

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The brown hyena, scientifically known as Parahyaena brunnea, is a medium-sized carnivorous mammal, primarily nocturnal, inhabiting the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa. It is distinguished by its long, shaggy coat, ranging from dark brown to black, with lighter stripes on its legs. Its snout is pointed, and it has large, rounded ears. Unlike other hyenas, it is mainly a scavenger, feeding on carcasses left by other predators. It lives in small family groups but often hunts alone. Although its appearance might seem intimidating, it is generally shy and avoids human interactions.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the brown hyena, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance, as this animal is quite shy. Focus on twilight or nighttime hours to observe its natural activity. Be patient and discreet, blending into the environment to avoid scaring it away. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera in low-light conditions.