The spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is a large carnivore. While not yet endangered, the numbers of these animals are declining. Attitudes regarding spotted hyenas vary greatly; however, the main cause of the decreasing population seems to be persecution by humans suggesting that there are strong negative attitudes toward these animals. Current research attempts to determine the effect of human disturbance and poaching on the hyena in its environment. This presentation will consider the strengths and weaknesses of current ideas to preserve the spotted hyena population, as well as additional ideas that could potentially aid in boosting the number of spotted hyenas.
