Once Forgotten, Now Celebrated: Meet Phiri the Hyena at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary
Phiri the hyena is centre stage at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary near Bethlehem as the site prepares to mark International Hyena Day on 27 April.
FOUR PAWS calls for greater compassion for a species too often misrepresented and mistreated
FOUR PAWS says his rescue story now helps challenge the myths that still follow hyenas, a species it describes as intelligent, social and ecologically important. At LIONSROCK, Phiri lives among more than 70 lions, 17 tigers and three leopards.
The sanctuary says Phiri once lived alone in inadequate conditions, without enrichment, social contact or the chance to show natural behaviour. After his rescue, staff placed him in a spacious enclosure where he can scent-mark, explore, scan his surroundings and vocalise.
LIONSROCK says his nightly whoops carry across the Free State and show the species’ distinctive communication skills.
Sanctuary manager Hildegard Pirker said, ‘Phiri reminds us every day how intelligent, sensitive and social hyenas are. Once he felt safe, his entire personality opened up.’
The sanctuary says his progress shows what can happen when rescued wild animals receive the right environment and consistent care and it is using International Hyena Day to encourage visitors to rethink the animal’s reputation.
Hyena myths still shape how many people view the species, even though FOUR PAWS says their social structure and vocal communication make them far more complex than popular culture suggests.
LIONSROCK is inviting the public to see Phiri as a survivor, not a stereotype.
For more information, visit their website at lionsrock.org
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Rally for big cats: FOUR PAWS calls for action on World Wildlife Day
Picture: © FOUR PAWS / Supplied
