Many remember the laughter of hyenas from the famous cartoon 'The Lion King.' But why do they do it?
People unconsciously project human characteristics onto animals to make sense of their actions. But in the case of hyenas, it is not about humor.
According to acoustic studies, they giggle during eating or conflicts with their kin. Through laughter, hyenas express frustration or call for help.
Researchers believe that, above all, laughter indicates the social status of the hyena. Moreover, these peculiar sounds are often unconscious. For example, nighttime hunting for hyenas is an extremely difficult and risky endeavor that puts the animal in a state of stress. If they fall victim to an attack or fail to catch food, the hyena begins to laugh hysterically, showing fear and frustration.
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