Why striped hyenas are often misunderstood in local folklore
Sharing a habitat with a species does not necessarily mean people truly understand it. Recent research carried out in Purulia, West Bengal, by experts from HEAL, NCBS, and TDU found that just 39% of residents were able to correctly recognize the striped hyena. Since these animals are solitary and active at night, infrequent sightings have fueled tall tales, anxiety, and conflicting cultural perceptions.