The Skunk
Skunks are small to medium-sized mammals that are well-known for their ability to spray a foul-smelling liquid when they feel threatened. They typically feature black fur with white stripes or spots and have small heads, sharp claws, and bushy tails. Skunks are nocturnal and omnivorous, thriving on a diet of plants, insects and small rodents. Equipped with an excellent sense of smell and hearing but poor vision, these creatures are pretty adaptable, making their homes in a variety of environments.
| Skunk | |
|---|---|
| Size | 8-19 inches (20-48 cm) |
| Weight | 1.1-14 lbs (0.5-6.3 kg) |
| Speed | 10mph (16km/h) |
| Key Strength | Ability to spray a pungent odor |
| Biggest Weakness | Limited spray range (up to 10 feet) |
| Scientific Name | Mephitidae |
| Family | Carnivora |
| Habitat | Forests, grasslands, and suburban areas |
| Geography | North and South America |
| Diet | Omnivorous (insects, small rodents, fruits, and plants) |
| Lifespan | 2 years - 10 years |
The Skunk
Skunks are small to medium-sized mammals that are well-known for their ability to spray a foul-smelling liquid when they feel threatened. They typically feature black fur with white stripes or spots and have small heads, sharp claws, and bushy tails. Skunks are nocturnal and omnivorous, thriving on a diet of plants, insects and small rodents. Equipped with an excellent sense of smell and hearing but poor vision, these creatures are pretty adaptable, making their homes in a variety of environments.
Fun Fact: Did you know that skunks are reluctant sprayers? They only use their smelliest defence as a last resort because it takes up to ten days to replenish the supply!
| Skunk | |
|---|---|
| Size | 8-19 inches (20-48 cm) |
| Weight | 1.1-14 lbs (0.5-6.3 kg) |
| Speed | 10mph (16km/h) |
| Key Strength | Ability to spray a pungent odor |
| Biggest Weakness | Limited spray range (up to 10 feet) |
| Scientific Name | Mephitidae |
| Family | Carnivora |
| Habitat | Forests, grasslands, and suburban areas |
| Geography | North and South America |
| Diet | Omnivorous (insects, small rodents, fruits, and plants) |
| Lifespan | 2 years - 10 years |
Fun Fact: A group of skunks is amusingly referred to as a "surfeit", though they are often solitary animals.
Fun Fact: Baby skunks, called kits, are born blind and without the ability to spray, developing these features after about three weeks.