What Is a Group of Hyenas Called? Not a Pack or a Herd but a...

Right now? We'd call this group of hyenas hungry. Sean Clee / Shutterstock

They laugh, they hunt, they challenge lions—and they do it all in groups. But what is a group of hyenas called? The answer depends on whether you're talking to a wildlife expert or swapping animal facts with friends.

In the animal kingdom, collective nouns help describe how animals behave together. With hyenas, the term is both descriptive and unexpectedly appropriate.

A Clan of Hyenas

The most widely accepted collective noun for hyenas is "clan." This term reflects the social structure of hyena groups—particularly spotted hyenas, which live in large, matriarchal units. A single clan can include up to 80 individuals.

Unlike wolf packs, which are family groups typically led by a mated alpha pair, hyena clans have a strict dominance hierarchy. Females rule the group, and even the lowest-ranking female outranks the highest-ranking male. Cubs inherit their mother’s social rank.

The term "clan" sets hyenas apart from many other carnivores and helps highlight their complex social behavior.

But Wait, There’s a Cackle

In casual contexts or humorous writing, you might hear a group of hyenas referred to as a cackle. This nickname comes from their eerie, laughter-like vocalizations, especially when feeding or defending a carcass.

While not the scientifically recognized term, "cackle" has caught on in pop culture and wildlife commentary. It’s one of those phrases that sticks because it sounds exactly like what it describes.

Other Collective Nouns for Animals

The English language has a treasure trove of colorful group names, including:

A murder of crows
A parliament of owls
A pride of lions
A business of ferrets
A crash of rhinos
A wake of vultures

These names often reflect either the animal’s appearance or behavior. A stand of flamingos might suggest their iconic upright posture, while a memory of elephants honors their reputed ability to remember things from long ago.

Just as a colony of ants or a swarm of insects describes their movement and structure, a clan of hyenas underscores their tight-knit social bonds.

Social Animals in the Wild

Hyenas are often misunderstood. Though they resemble wild dogs, they belong to a separate biological family, more closely related to cats. They are also skilled hunters, not just scavengers, and often work together to take down large prey.

Within the clan, food-sharing, cub-rearing and even conflict resolution are highly organized. These animals don’t just survive in groups—they thrive.

So next time you see a wildlife documentary or catch a viral video of hyenas in action, remember: You’re watching a clan at work. Or, if you’re feeling cheeky, maybe even a cackle.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.