Species · GBIF taxon 2434878
American Hog-nosed Skunk
Conepatus leuconotusAlso known as Rooter Skunk, Badger Skunk, White-backed Hog-nosed Skunk, Texas Hog-nosed Skunk
American hog-nosed skunks are robust, heavy-bodied mammals easily recognized by their long, hairless snout used for plowing through soil in search of buried insects. Unlike other skunks, they sport a single broad band of white fur running from the crown of the head down the entire back and tail. They are specialized diggers, using powerful claws to unearth grubs and beetles in rocky foothills and brushy canyons.
NocturnalSolitaryDigging
Licensed referenceen:Louis Agassiz Fuertes. / Public domain · cc0
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding heavily on beetle larvae, grubs, roots, and small vertebrates
- family
- Mephitidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, vehicle collisions, and localized pest control trapping
- life Span
- 3 to 6 years in the wild
LC
Can spray a foul-smelling musk and carry rabies; observe from a safe distance.
Equipped with powerful anal glands that spray a highly persistent, noxious musk, and can transmit rabies through bites.
Never corner or attempt to handle; back away slowly if the animal stomps its feet or lifts its tail.- Look for diggings: Search for cone-shaped holes in loose soil where they have rooted for grubs.
- Watch for warning signs: If they stomp their front feet or raise their tail, back away immediately.
- Keep dogs leashed: Curious pets are the most common victims of their potent defensive spray.