Animal Profiles
Mammals

Skunk

Mephitidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Skunks are mammals known for their defensive scent. This account describes the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), a widespread North American omnivore.

Mephitis mephitis (skunk)

Representative species: Mephitis mephitis.

At a glance

Location
Striped skunks live across much of the United States, southern Canada and parts of northern Mexico. Woodland edges, grasslands, farms and suburbs provide habitat.
Habitat
Temperate forest, Grassland, Towns and cities
Diet
Omnivore
Food
Insects, small animals, eggs, carrion and seasonal fruit are eaten.

Classification

Common name
Skunk
Browse group
Mammals
Scientific name or taxon
Mephitidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Carnivora
Family
Mephitidae
Source classification
Mammalia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • White markings vary between individuals.
  • Long foreclaws help it dig for food.
  • It can warn a threat before spraying.

Habitat and range

Striped skunks live across much of the United States, southern Canada and parts of northern Mexico. Woodland edges, grasslands, farms and suburbs provide habitat.

Appearance and adaptations

A black coat, white back markings and a bushy tail make it recognizable. Short legs and strong foreclaws support ground-level foraging.

Diet and behaviour

Insects, small animals, eggs, carrion and seasonal fruit are eaten. Its diet changes with season and opportunity. When approached, it may raise its tail and stamp its forefeet before using defensive scent.

Sources

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