Species · GBIF taxon 2434835
Western Spotted Skunk
Spilogale gracilisAlso known as Spotted Skunk, Canyon Skunk, Civet Cat, Hydrophobia Cat
Western spotted skunks are small, highly active carnivores famous for their striking black and white broken stripes and acrobatic defensive displays. When threatened, they perform a dramatic handstand to display their warning coloration before deploying a potent, foul-smelling musk. They are agile climbers, frequently scaling trees to hunt or escape predators.
NocturnalAcrobaticCarnivore
Licensed referenceNPS / Public domain · cc0
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on insects, small rodents, birds, eggs, berries, and carrion
- family
- Mephitidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, vehicle collisions, rodenticide poisoning, and domestic predators
- life Span
- 1 to 2 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity
LC
Can spray a foul-smelling musk and carry rabies; observe from a safe distance.
Deploys a highly irritating, sulfur-based musk from anal glands and can transmit rabies through bites.
Never corner or approach; if it lifts its hind legs into a handstand, back away immediately.- Watch for handstands: If a skunk stands on its front paws, it is preparing to spray; back away slowly.
- Listen for stomping: They often stomp their front feet as an initial warning before spraying.
- Secure attractants: Keep trash cans sealed and pet food indoors to avoid attracting them to yards.