BETHLEHEM – A once-neglected hyena rescued from poor conditions is now thriving at a sanctuary, as animal welfare experts use his story to challenge damaging stereotypes and call for greater protection of the species ahead of International Hyena Day.
The Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary near Bethlehem in the Free State, operated by global animal welfare organisation Four Paws, is marking the annual awareness day on 27 April by highlighting the story of Phiri, a hyena once kept in poor conditions and now thriving under specialist care.
A story of transformation
Phiri was rescued after being held alone without proper stimulation or social contact – conditions that experts say are particularly harmful for a species known for its intelligence and complex social structures. Hyenas rely on interaction, communication and environmental enrichment to express natural behaviours, all of which were absent in his previous life.
Since arriving at Lionsrock, however, Phiri has undergone a striking transformation. He now lives in a spacious, species-appropriate habitat where he can roam, explore and engage in instinctive behaviours such as scent-marking and vocalising. Staff say his confidence has grown steadily, revealing a curious and expressive personality.
His vocal sounds often likened to laughter are in fact sophisticated communication signals used within hyena groups.
Hildegard Pirker, sanctuary manager at Lionsrock, said Phiri’s progress has been remarkable.
“Once he felt safe, his entire personality opened up. Watching him flourish has been one of our greatest joys,” she says.
Challenging stereotypes and misconceptions
International Hyena Day aims to challenge widespread misconceptions about the species, which is frequently portrayed negatively in popular culture. Conservationists argue that such portrayals ignore the animal’s ecological importance, strong social bonds and high levels of intelligence. These misunderstandings, campaigners warn, can contribute to the mistreatment of hyenas in captivity, where they may be kept in unsuitable environments or exploited for entertainment.
Phiri’s story, the sanctuary says, underlines the importance of facilities like Lionsrock, which provide lifelong care for animals that cannot be returned to the wild. While Four Paws maintains that wild animals belong in their natural habitats, it continues to rescue those unable to survive independently.
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“Phiri arrived carrying the emotional scars of his past,”said Pirker.
“Today, he moves with confidence and curiosity. His journey reminds us why stronger protections for wild animals are so important.”
As International Hyena Day approaches, the sanctuary is calling on the public to reconsider their views and recognise hyenas as resilient, intelligent animals deserving of greater understanding and protection.
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