For what reason would a spotted hyena "laugh"?

A spotted hyena would laugh due to nervousness. Laughter in hyenas is often associated with anxiety and fear, serving as a social cue to communicate stress or discomfort within the group. This unusual vocalization helps hyenas signal their state of unease and potentially regulate tensions and conflicts among each other. It acts as a means of expression when they encounter unfamiliar or potentially threatening situations, enabling them to communicate their apprehension and communicate their need for support or reassurance.