Animals do not have the capacity for hatred

Let me repeat that: Animals do not have the capacity for hatred.

So then why are lions and spotted hyenas seemingly at each other's throats at all times, and why will lions go out of their way for the chance to end a spotted hyena who makes the mistake of traipsing through their territory?

It makes more sense when you realize that both species are considered apex predators. This puts them in direct competition with each other, which means the mere existence of one threatens the resource security of the other. This is especially true in the leaner times of year. When prey animals are harder to come by, you can expect to see this competition ramp way up.

However, there is no hatred to be found in the hearts of either animal. When you get down to the core reasoning behind these violent acts, you’ll find it is simply the most efficient means to a preferred end: less mouths to feed means more for everyone else.