The
clitoris ( or ) is a female
sex organ present in
mammals,
ostriches and a limited number of other animals. In humans, the visible button-like portion is near the front junction of the
labia minora (inner lips), above the opening of the
urethra. Unlike the
penis, the male
homologue (equivalent) to the clitoris, it usually does not contain the
distal portion (or opening) of the urethra and is therefore not used for urination. While few animals urinate through the clitoris, the
spotted hyena, which has an especially well-developed clitoris, urinates, mates and gives birth via the organ. Some other
carnivorous animals, or mammals in particular, such as
lemurs and
spider monkeys, also have a well-developed clitoris.