FIELD GUIDE: MAMMALS

SPOTTED HYEANA

 Scientific name: Crocuta crocuta

 Family: Hyaenidae

Order: Carnivora

 Mass: 44 - 64kg

Height: 70 - 92cm

 Vulnerability: Least concern

The spotted hyena also known as the laughing hyena, is a hyena species, currently classed as the sole extant 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 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. It is the only mammalian species to lack an external vaginal opening, having a pseudo-penis instead.