Skunk Facts

- The scientific name of the striped skunk, Mephitis Mephitis is derived from a Latin word that means “poisonous vapor”.

- Skunks live in Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Americas.

- There are 10 subspecies of skunks, divided into 4 genera: hooded and striped skunks, spotted skunks, stink badgers and hog-nosed skunks.

- Skunks are omnivorous.

- Skunks cannot see clearly any objects more than 10 feet away, making them particularly vulnerable to traffic.

- A baby skunk is called a kit

- Fewer than 10% of skunks survive for longer than 3 years, although captive skunks live much longer.

- Skunks only carry enough spray for 5 to 6 uses, and require 10 days to resupply their store.

- Many animals don’t attack skunks, out of fear of being sprayed. However, the great horned owl has a nearly non-existent sense of smell, and has no issue attacking a skunk.

About the Author
Jacob Maddox manages content for Wildlife Animals http://www.wildlife-animals.com an educational wildlife and animal website. Jacob also guest writes for Dog Pound http://www.dog-pound.net