Little is known about the brown hyena (Hyaena brunnea) and consequently, this species has often been misunderstood. Glyn Maude studies these unique animals in order to gain a better understanding of their ecology, behavior, and population viability.
A significant population of brown hyenas inhabits the Makgadikgaki region of Botswana. This is an arid savannah biome dominated by two major salt pans. The brown hyena is a nocturnal forager and can cover up to 50km a night in search of food; aiding their search is their incredible sense of smell.
Dr. Maude has been conducting a study on the genetic clues from brown hyena scent marks. The hyena can deposit two distinct substances onto a grass stalk, which are called scent marks. The purposes of this mark are believed to be territorial defence and communication within a hyena clan. Research and samples of these scent marks have been collected and tested for DNA analysis. Through the use of GPS and tracking collars, behavioral observations and mapping of ranging habits and territories have been recorded.
In conjunction with his current research in Makgadikagi, Glyn is collaborating with the Kalahari Game Reserve to start collecting data on wildlife species there. This study hopes to improve the understanding of the region’s underlying system dynamics. Key conservation and management issues will be looked at in studying the relationship between wildlife and surrounding human populations.
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