When it comes to carnivorous mammals related to the hyena, one animal that immediately comes to mind is the African wild dog, also known as the painted wolf or the Cape hunting dog. These fascinating creatures are highly social animals that live and hunt in packs, similar to hyenas.

The African wild dog is known for its distinctive coat pattern, which features a mix of black, white, and yellow fur. They are incredibly efficient hunters, with a success rate of around 80%, making them one of the most successful predators in the African savannah.

Like hyenas, African wild dogs are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge for food when necessary. However, they primarily rely on hunting in packs to take down large prey such as antelope, wildebeest, and zebras.

Despite their similar carnivorous diets, hyenas and African wild dogs have some key differences. While hyenas are known for their scavenging abilities and powerful jaws, African wild dogs rely on their speed and endurance to chase down prey over long distances.

Another carnivorous mammal related to the hyena is the fossa, a cat-like predator found in Madagascar. While not as well-known as the African wild dog, the fossa is an agile and skilled hunter that preys on a variety of animals, including lemurs, birds, and reptiles.

Like hyenas, fossas are solitary hunters that are capable of taking down prey much larger than themselves. They are known for their arboreal hunting techniques, using their sharp claws and teeth to catch their prey in the treetops.

Overall, the African wild dog and the fossa are two fascinating carnivorous mammals that are related to the hyena. While they may have different hunting strategies and behaviors, they all share a common trait – a love for meat and a knack for survival in the wild.

Next time you're on a safari in Africa or exploring the jungles of Madagascar, keep an eye out for these incredible carnivores and marvel at their impressive hunting skills.

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