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Skunks

Mephitidae

Skunks are black-and-white mammals in the carnivore family Mephitidae, best known for ejecting a strong-smelling defensive spray from enlarged anal scent glands that they can aim with notable control. In North America, skunks are sometimes called “polecats.” Most species have bold black-and-white warning patterns (often stripes, but sometimes broken stripes/spots) and many will give threat displays (e.g., stamping) before spraying. The spray can reach around 10–12 feet (3–3.7 m). Size varies by species; most skunks are roughly 46–93 cm (18–37 in) long and 1–6 kg (2–13 lb). Skunks are omnivorous, eating a broad mix of insects and other invertebrates, small vertebrates, eggs/carrion, and plant foods.

Skunks are black-and-white mammals in the carnivore family Mephitidae, best known for ejecting a strong-smelling defensive spray from enlarged anal scent glands that they can aim with notable control. In North America, skunks are sometimes called “polecats.” Most species have bold black-and-white warning patterns (often stripes, but sometimes broken stripes/spots) and many will give threat displays (e.g., stamping) before spraying. The spray can reach around 10–12 feet (3–3.7 m). Size varies by species; most skunks are roughly 46–93 cm (18–37 in) long and 1–6 kg (2–13 lb). Skunks are omnivorous, eating a broad mix of insects and other invertebrates, small vertebrates, eggs/carrion, and plant foods.