Spotted Hyena head close up in Ngorongoro crater, Tanzania

The spotted hyena is a species of hyena native to Sub-Saharan Africa. The spotted hyena is the largest 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.