Hyenas are mainly found in Africa, but there's also a small population in parts of Asia. They live in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, woodlands, and even some mountainous areas. Hyenas have a unique appearance with a robust body, strong legs, and a sloping back. They are about 2.5 to 3.5 feet tall and can weigh between 90 to 190 pounds. Their fur can range from brown to gray, and they often have a hunched posture. Hyenas have strong jaws and sharp teeth that allow them to crush bones, helping them extract as much nutrition as possible. They have excellent senses of smell and hearing, which aid in locating food and communicating with other members of their clan.

Hyenas are carnivores and skilled scavengers, meaning they often eat the remains of animals that other predators have hunted. However, they are also skilled hunters and can take down prey as large as wildebeests or zebras. 

Female hyenas give birth to 1 to 3 cubs after a gestation period of about 3 months. Cubs are raised in dens and are initially black in color. They are known for their distinctive calls, including the famous "laugh" that sounds like giggles. They are social animals that live in groups called clans, led by dominant females. Hyenas are active both day and night.

Different species of hyenas have different conservation statuses. Some populations are stable, but others are threatened due to habitat loss, human conflict, and poaching.