Biological systems are often messy. Usually, as soon as you think you’ve found a set of useful patterns, nature will remind you that there’s always an exception. With that said, patterns are still useful, one must just remember to not have complete faith in them when it comes to biology.
So, here we have 4 species of hyena. Try to tell which is which, using not just eye shape but also the markings and shapes around the eyes (This method appears to work best with mammals and – to a lesser degree – birds.)
Two species are monogamous, shy, and nocturnal. They have specific behaviors designed to help them avoid conflict, with one species even playing dead when provoked. Which ones are they?
Two species are polygamous and have complex social structures that rely on conflict to function and maintain order.
One species is openly competitive within its social group. Access to kills, mating opportunities and the time of dispersal for males depends on the ability to dominate other clan-members. Females provide only for their own cubs rather than assist each other, and males display no paternal care.
What do you think?
