Hyena

Hyenas, Laughing hyena, Spotted hyena

The hyena has a poor reputation in films, cast as a sneaky scavenger, yet spotted hyenas are skilled hunters that live in tight, well-organized clans led by females. In a dream a hyena can stand for group pressure, mocking laughter or someone waiting to profit from another person's mistake. Its famous cackling "laugh" is really a sound of excitement or frustration, so people who seem to laugh at you may be less sure of themselves than they look. Hyenas also crack bones other animals leave behind, a reminder that something others have given up on may still be useful.

Dream variations

• A pack of hyenas circlingA group seems to be waiting for you to slip. Keep your footing and don't give them a show.
• A friendly hyenaSomeone with a bad reputation has a kinder side you haven't seen yet. Hear them out before you decide.
• Hyenas fighting over scrapsPeople around you are competing for very little. Step back; there's a better meal elsewhere.

Related symbols

Laughing · Lion · Wolf · Vulture

Dream interpretations are for entertainment.