Hyenas are not native to, nor are they a part of the free-roaming wildlife population in Texas or anywhere else in North America. Any sightings reported in the state are the result of mistaken identity, which is common with local canids and other scavengers. Their presence in North America today is limited to controlled environments like zoos or private facilities.
Global Distribution of Hyenas
The four extant species of hyena—Spotted, Striped, Brown, and Aardwolf—are naturally confined to Africa and parts of Asia. The Spotted hyena, the largest and most well-known species, is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting savannas and grasslands. The Brown hyena is found primarily in southern Africa, particularly in arid deserts and coastal regions. The Striped hyena has the broadest geographic reach, extending from North and East Africa into the Middle East, Central Asia, and India. The smallest species, the insectivorous Aardwolf, is found in East and Southern Africa, feeding almost exclusively on termites.
Texas Wildlife Often Misidentified
The physical appearance of native Texas wildlife often leads to misidentification, particularly when the animals are diseased or viewed under poor conditions. The most common animal mistaken for a hyena is the coyote, especially when individuals are large or have a patchy coat. Coyotes with severe mange, a skin disease that causes hair loss and thickened skin, can take on a hunched, gaunt appearance that superficially resembles a hyena’s sloped back and powerful forequarters.
A true hyena possesses significantly longer forelimbs and shorter hindlimbs, creating a distinct sloping posture not seen in the more uniformly built coyote. Hyenas also have one of the strongest jaw pressures in the animal kingdom, allowing them to crush bone, a capability that far exceeds that of a coyote. Feral dogs and feral hogs, which are prevalent scavengers in the state, may also contribute to the confusion, but their morphology does not match the unique hyaenid structure.
Regulations for Exotic Animal Ownership
While hyenas are not present in the wild, Texas permits the private ownership of certain exotic species, meaning the possibility of an escaped animal exists. Hyenas are specifically listed as a “dangerous wild animal” under Chapter 822 of the Texas Health and Safety Code. Owning such an animal legally requires the owner to obtain a Certificate of Registration from the local or county animal control office. This registration process imposes strict requirements, including detailed insurance, specific housing standards, and containment protocols designed to prevent escapes and ensure public safety. The regulations ensure that any hyena present in Texas is contained within a controlled environment, such as a zoo or a registered private facility.