What is the Difference Between Hyena and Jackal?

The main differences between hyenas and jackals are their size, family, and appearance. Here are the key distinctions:

1. Size: Jackals are smaller than hyenas, typically weighing between 11lbs and 30lbs, with a height of 1.3ft and a length of up to 2.5ft. In contrast, hyenas are larger, weighing between 90lbs and 190lbs, with a height of 2ft-3ft at the shoulder and a length of up to 5ft.
2. Family: Jackals are canines, while hyenas belong to a separate family of carnivores called Hyaenidae. Although hyenas share some physical similarities with canids, their phylogenetic relationships are closer to felines.
3. Appearance: Hyenas have larger heads, thick necks, and more powerful jaws compared to jackals. They also have considerably taller forelimbs than hind limbs, which is less prominent in jackals.
4. Species: There are three species of jackals, while hyenas consist of four species.
5. Distribution: Jackals have a greater natural distribution range compared to hyenas.
6. Grooming: Hyenas are more prone to grooming themselves than jackals.
7. Mating: Hyenas exhibit repeated serial mating with short intervals, while this behavior is not present in jackals.

Comparative Table: Hyena vs Jackal

Here is a table comparing the differences between hyenas and jackals:

Both hyenas and jackals belong to the Order Carnivora, but they are placed in different suborders/families. Hyenas consist of four species and are larger than jackals, which have only three species. Hyenas have more like canids morphologically, but their phylogenetic relationships are closer to felines. Jackals have a greater natural distribution range compared to hyenas.