Want to learn how to draw a hyena in a simple and friendly way? This easy drawing tutorial breaks the picture into small steps, so beginners can follow along with confidence. Take your time, enjoy each shape, and build your hyena step by step.

What You Will Need

• Drawing paper
• Pencil
• Eraser
• Black pen or marker
• Colored pencils or crayons (optional)

Here are my RECOMMENDED Art Supplies!

• Crayola Coloring Set (140 Pieces – Mega Value!)
• 24 Colored Crayon Set
• A4 Printer Paper
• Crayola Coloring Pencils
• HP Home Printer with Instant Ink!

Time needed:

29 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Draw the Hyena’s Two Ears

Start with two large ears near the top of the page. Each ear looks like a pointed leaf shape, with a small curved zigzag line inside for the inner ear detail.

Pro Tip: Keep both ears at a similar height so the hyena’s head will look balanced.

[Alt Text: A beginner step in a hyena drawing tutorial showing two large pointed ears with small inner ear details.]

Step 2: Add the Head, Eyes, Nose, and Mouth

Draw a rounded head shape between the ears, letting the chin become gently wider. Then add two round eyes, an oval nose, and a small curved mouth to give the hyena a cute expression.

Pro Tip: Place the nose in the center first, then align the two eyes more easily.

[Alt Text: A hyena drawing for beginners with a rounded head, large eyes, an oval nose, and a small smiling mouth.]

Step 3: Draw the Right Back and Hind Leg

Start from the lower right side of the head and draw a curved back line outward. Then draw the hind leg down with a rounded paw, adding two short lines for the toes.

Pro Tip: Make the hind leg a little more curved than the front leg so the back of the body looks natural.

[Alt Text: A step by step hyena drawing showing the right back curve, one hind leg, and a rounded paw with toe details.]

Step 4: Add the Other Front Leg

Under the head, slightly to the left, draw the second front leg. Let this leg stretch downward naturally, then add a rounded paw with short toe lines.

Pro Tip: Keep the two front paws at about the same height so the hyena looks steady.

[Alt Text: An easy hyena drawing tutorial showing the second front leg with a rounded paw and small toe details.]

Step 5: Complete the Body and Back Leg

Draw a curved chest and belly line through the middle of the body, connecting the front and back legs. Then add the middle back leg with a small paw, using short lines for the toe details.

Pro Tip: Leave enough space under the body so the legs do not feel crowded together.

[Alt Text: A hyena sketch with a fuller body shape, an added back leg, and small paw toe details.]

Step 6: Add Inner Ears, Spots, and the Tail

Draw larger curved inner-ear lines inside both ears to add more detail. Then add small round spots on the head and body, and finish with a fluffy tail curling upward.

Pro Tip: Let the spots vary slightly in size, but keep them spaced out so the drawing stays clear.

[Alt Text: A finished hyena drawing with inner ear curves, round spots on the head and body, and a fluffy raised tail.]

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

Fun Facts

• Hyenas are known for their strong jaws and excellent hearing.
• Their spotted coats help them blend into grassy habitats.
• Although they may look a bit like dogs, hyenas belong to their own animal family.
• Learning how to draw a hyena is a fun way to practice animal shapes and body balance.

Pin it now, Draw later!

You have now completed an easy step by step drawing of a hyena. You can trace the final lines with a black pen and color the body in warm brown or sandy shades, then add darker spots for extra character. Keep practicing this drawing for beginners, and try changing the pose or expression to make your hyena unique. If you enjoyed this easy drawing tutorial, come back and draw another animal too.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Hyena Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

Can beginners learn how to draw a hyena easily?

Yes. This step by step drawing method uses simple shapes and clear lines, which makes it great for beginners.

What colors should I use for a hyena?

You can use light brown, tan, gray, or sandy yellow for the body. Add darker brown or black spots to complete the look.

How can I make my hyena drawing look better?

Try keeping the ears even, spacing the legs clearly, and drawing the spots lightly at first. Practice slowly, and your drawing will improve each time.