The
spotted hyena (
Crocuta crocuta), also known as the
laughing hyena, is a species of
hyena, currently classed as the sole member of the genus
Crocuta, native to
Sub-Saharan Africa. It is listed as being of
least concern by the
IUCN on account of its widespread range and large numbers estimated between 27,000 and 47,000 individuals. The species is however experiencing declines outside of protected areas due to habitat loss and poaching. The species may have originated in
Asia, and once ranged throughout
Europe for at least one million years until the end of the
Late Pleistocene. The spotted hyena is the largest known member of the Hyaenidae, and is further physically distinguished from other species by its vaguely
bear-like build, its rounded ears, its less prominent mane, its spotted pelt, its more dual purposed dentition, its fewer
nipples and the presence of a pseudo-penis in the female. It is the only mammalian species to lack an external vaginal opening.