Gangs of Fear: Animals that hunt in packs

April 23,2024

Known by some as “wolves of the sea,” orcas hunt in packs, using their numbers to herd prey into a small or isolated area before attacking.

Orcas

They hunt in groups larger than one relatively frequently. However, their hunting success was not higher when hunting in a cooperative manner versus individually.

Seals

On the other hand, use a combination of sophisticated teamwork and individual intelligence, endurance, and powerful jaws to bring down prey as large as moose or bison.

Wolves

The only big cats known to live and hunt in groups, can number from around 7 to 23 individuals. In certain regions, these groups are so large they are referred to as mega-prides.

Lions

Spotted hyenas form clans that can range from 6 to over 100 members, and their teamwork can take down any prey regardless of size.

Spotted hyenas

Banded mongooses live in cohesive packs of 6-40 individuals, using their strength in numbers to kill any prey and fend off threats.

Banded mongooses

African wild dogs are perhaps the most successful hunters, with up to 90% of hunts ending in a successful kill, thanks to their sophisticated teamwork and pack life.

African wild dogs