Hyenas live in female-dominated societies, where females are larger and more aggressive than males. Females are also responsible for mating and reproduction.
Male competition
Male hyenas compete for the right to mate with females. They do this by fighting, chasing, and vocalizing. The strongest males are usually the most successful at mating.
Scent marking
Hyenas use scent marking to communicate with each other. Females use scent marks to advertise their reproductive status, and males use scent marks to attract females.
Mating
Mating occurs when a male and female hyena come into contact with each other. The male will mount the female and insert his penis into her vagina. Mating can last for several minutes.
Gestation
The gestation period for hyenas is about 4 months. During this time, the female hyena will carry the developing cubs in her uterus.
Birth
Hyenas give birth to litters of 1-4 cubs. The cubs are born blind and helpless. They will stay with their mother for several months, learning how to hunt and survive.
Weaning
Hyenas are weaned from their mothers at around 6 months old. They are then considered to be independent adults.