Hyena Taxonomy and Species

Hyenas resemble dogs but are evolutionarily closer to cats. They belong to a group of cat-like carnivores, with their closest relatives being mongooses and meerkats. Despite these relations, hyenas are unique enough to have their own taxonomic group, Hyenaidae, which includes four living species: the spotted hyena, striped hyena, brown hyena, and aardwolf.

Which group do hyenas belong to based on their evolutionary relationship?

• Dog-like carnivores

• Cat-like carnivores

• Bird-like carnivores

• Reptile-like carnivores

What are the closest relatives of hyenas?

• Bears and raccoons

• Mongooses and meerkats

• Wolves and foxes

• Lions and tigers

What is the taxonomic group that hyenas belong to?

• Felidae

• Canidae

• Ursidae

• Hyaenidae

Which of the following is NOT a species of hyena?

• Spotted hyena

• Striped hyena

• Gray hyena

• Brown hyena

Which hyena species is known for being tiny and adorable?

• Aardwolf

• Spotted hyena

• Striped hyena

• Brown hyena