Wolf vs Hyena: The world’s greatest canine vs one of its most notorious predators, who is the superior beast?
Wolf
One of the most iconic of all animals, the wolf is the largest canine in the world and has been seen as a symbol of leadership, family, grace, and wisdom for thousands of years.
Wolves live in groups called packs, which can include anywhere from just a few to even 15 or more members and are renowned for their social intelligence and strategic hunting coordinations.
Although a wolf’s strength is usually found in numbers, it would be a mistake for any similarly sized opponent to underestimate the power of a lone wolf.
Hyena
The hyena is one of the most infamous animals in the world, known for their cruel and vicious hunting methods.
Hyenas are natural enemies of the majestic lion; they will often compete for food and one will even kill the others cubs or pups (not to mention each other), just to prevent future competition.
Hyenas live in clans that can include of anywhere from several to even up to 100 members.
The bite force of the hyena is among the most powerful in the world.
Truly a ruthless warrior, the hyena will not go down easy in any fair match.
Analysis: Wolf vs Hyena
For the most part, hyenas are bigger than wolves. Therefore, in order for the fight to be balanced, the best representatives for each side are the male Gray Wolf and female Spotted Hyena, each of which are the largest of their own species.
| Stats | Wolf | Hyena |
| Weight | 175 lbs (80 kg) | 175 lbs (80 kg) |
| Length | 6.5 ft (2m) | 6 ft (1.8 m) |
| Height | 2.8 ft (85 cm) | 3 ft (91 cm) |
| Bite force | 400 PSI | 1,100 PSI |
The sizes are fairly balanced, with the wolf being slightly longer and the hyena slightly taller.
The biggest physical advantage either one has over the other is the hyena’s bone-crushing bite force, able to deliver a much more powerful blow than the wolf.
In addition, hyenas are stronger and more robust.
What wolves lack in bite force and strength, however, they make up for in superior agility, stamina, and intelligence.
Conclusion
Both hyenas and wolves are very evenly matched in terms of size, each competitor having different strengths.
While victory may be a close call, the hyena will probably be the winner the majority of the time, mostly thanks to its much more devastating bite.