A spotted hyena named Noubia has been hailed a 'supermum' after rescuing her cubs from an underground den threatened by torrential rain at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. Visitors were amazed when the hyena emerged with a soggy but healthy cub in her mouth, followed by a second cub days later. The cubs have since become stars of the park, making frequent appearances outdoors with their mother.
Rangers had been concerned about the den, which was originally dug by a previous hyena and later taken over by Noubia. The underground burrow, typically between four and 20 metres long, was at risk of flooding due to heavy downpours. Carnivore Team Leader Rebecca Brown said: 'We were very excited when a visitor reported seeing the cub above ground. It was a massive relief, as it was raining and cold. We were so pleased she brought it to the heated house.'
Noubia, who arrived from Belgium in late 2025 as part of a European breeding programme, gave birth to her first litter. Spotted hyenas have a high mortality rate during labour, with up to 60 per cent of mothers or cubs dying. The cubs are highly precocious, born with eyes open and teeth, and can walk within days. The father, Speedy, remains subordinate to the dominant female and keeps his distance.
Dr Charlotte MacDonald, Director of Animals, said: 'It was heartwarming to see Noubia take her cub inside. Hyenas love to dig their own dens, and we respect their choice. This is Noubia's first cub, but she seems a natural mother. We hope they continue to do well.' The park views the cubs' survival as a milestone for protecting the species, whose wild populations are declining.
