taxonID	type	description	language	source
03CC87EC9127FB55FD03FDC4F807D070.taxon	diagnosis	• Small- to medium-sized mammals with striking black and white color pattern and large scent glands at the base of the tail. • 30 - 134 cm. • South-east Asia, North, Central, and South America. • Found in almost all habitats within their range except for the most arid deserts and the colder alpine and arctic climates. • 4 genera, 12 species, 60 extant taxa. • 1 species Vulnerable; none Extinct since 1600.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	materials_examined	“ Tile de Java ”. [Indonesia, Java].	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	discussion	Three subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. M. j. javanensis Desmarest, 1820 — Java, Sumatra. M. j. lucifer Thomas, 1902 — Borneo. M. j. ollula Thomas, 1902 — Bunguran I, Natuna I.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 37 - 52 cm, tail 3.4 - 7.5 cm; weight 1.4 - 3.6 kg. Stink badgers are brownish-black in color with a white patch on the head. They have thick, coarse fur that gets thinner on the sides and belly. There is a narrow white stripe along the back down to the tail. This stripe sometimesis only partial, and variable. It can run from head to tail, but also can be interrupted. These stink badgers are small with stout bodies. The nose is long, mobile, and sparsely haired. The legs are short and strong. Sunda Stink Badger has larger ears and a longertail than Palawan Stink Badger. These stink badgers also have well-developed anal scent glands. The skull shows a long rostrum and is rounded with a large braincase. The coronoid process of the lower jaw is recurved.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. Sunda Stink Badgeris reported to occur in montane regions above 2100 meters, but it has been seen at lower elevations (almost to sea level) as well. On Borneo this species reportedly inhabits caves. However, they also are known to burrow into the ground to den. They occur in secondary forests and open grounds adjacent to forests.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Captive stink badgers have been observed to consume worms, insects, and the entrails of chickens. Stink badgers in the wild are omnivorous, and consume eggs, carrion, and some vegetable material, in addition to worms and insects. Sunda Stink Badger, when foraging, uses its snout and claws for rooting in the soil in search of food.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. Stink badgers are active year-round. They are nocturnal. During the day they shelter in underground burrows that they dig, or they use burrows dug by other animals. Burrows normally are 60 cm deep.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Sunda Stink Badger may “ growl ” and attempt to bite when handled. If threatened, a stink badger raisesits tail and ejects a pale greenish noxious fluid. Natives report that this secretion can blind or even asphyxiate dogs. Some natives reportedly have been rendered unconscious after being sprayed by the musk. The anal scent glands are used primarily for defense. Little has been reported about the size of home ranges and the animals’ movement within them. However, it has been reported that these stink badgers may live in pairs.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	breeding	Breeding. Sunda Stink Badgers have two inguinal and four pectoral mammae. Natives report that stink badgers may produce 2 - 3 young. Litters are probably reared in a burrow.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF35FDCBFA8BDFF8.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Not listed with CITES. Classified as Least Concern in The IUCN Red List. They have been known to cause damage in plantations by digging up seedlings, and have been killed as pests for this reason. The old Javanese sultans used the musk, in suitable dilution, in the manufacture of perfumes. Some natives eat the flesh of Mydaus, removing the scent glands immediately after the animals are killed. Others mix shavings of the skin with water and drink the mixture as a cure for fever or rheumatism.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	materials_examined	I'ile Palaouan [Philippine Isles, Palawan].	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	discussion	The species was once considered a separate genus, Suillotaxus, due to its smaller size, broader upper second premolar, and a shorter tail than that found in M. javanensis. However, this variation was later deemed to be no greater than that found in other species of the family. Monotypic.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Philippines (Palawan I, Calamian I).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 32 - 49 cm, tail 1 - 5 — 4 - 5 cm; weight 844 - 2490 g. Palawan Stink Badgers have a sharp face with an elongated and mobile muzzle. The body is squat but heavy, their legs are short, and they walk on plantigrade feet. The claws on the front feet are elongated, curved, and strong. The inner digits of the forepaws are joined by webbing and a muscle extending towards the tips. Stink badgers have small eyes and essentially vestigial external pinnae. The white stripes down the back can be divided, single and narrow, or absent. Like other members of the family the anal scent glands are well-developed and produce a noxious odor. The cheek teeth are rounded with low cusps rather than sectorial, and the first upper molaris larger than the last upper premolar.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. Palawan Stink Badgers have been detected in mixed agriculture and secondary forest throughout Palawan as well as in residential and cultivated areas. They have been found in grasslands and grassland / forest mosaics, grassland-shrub, natural damp grassland, and open damp soil along streams. Occasionally, they have been reported in rice fields and freshwater swamp forests where they forage. Shrubs are commonly used for shelter. They also have been seen foraging along roads and paths.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Their diet consists of soft animal matter such as worms of every kind, birds’ eggs, carrion, insects (including crickets and small beetles), and insect grubs. They also consume small freshwater crabs as well as various plant parts. Their mobile snout and long claws are used for finding insects and freshwater molluscs. While foraging, stink badgers move slowly, rooting around in the uppersoil layer using their snout to dig out grubs.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. Palawan Stink Badger is nocturnal, but has been seen active both day and night. While walking they are ungainly and awkward, but when startled can maintain a steady trot for 90 m. Even at a trot they are no faster than a walking human. Stink badgers walk with left and right feet apart, and hindfeet usually in line with front feet.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. These stink badger are not aggressive. When threatened, they exhibit various threat behaviors. Stink badgers snarl, show their teeth, and stamp their forefeet on the ground in a similar way to North American skunks. They also have been observed to feign death (with the anal area directed at the observer). As a last resort they will squirt a yellowish fluid from their anal glands. The musk is reportedly pungent, but not offensive, smelling faintly of almonds and stink ants. The Palawan Stink Badgeralso leaves a scent behind in its wanderings, suggesting that the discharge from its anal glands may be used for more than just defense. Little has been reported about their home ranges and movement within them. When not active, stink badgers take refuge in underground dens.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	breeding	Breeding. Little has been recorded regarding the breeding habits ofthis species. Palawan Stink Badgers have six teats, four pectoral and two inguinal. Likely there are 2 - 3 young in a litter, which is born in the den. Adults can be seen year round whereas young have been seen from November through March.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB57FF30F53DF79ADC17.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Not listed on CITES. The IUCN Red List considers them as Least Concern. The species has a restricted geographic range, but they are common where they occur, and it has been suggested that the former vulnerable listing is not justified. Humans sometimes eat stink badgers. They also are potential prey for Common Palm Civets, Leopard Cats, and Malay Civets. They have been found infected with the nematode Blattophila, and the pentastomid Waddycephalus teretiusculus. These stink badgers eat insects that harm tree growth and agriculture.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	materials_examined	“ Rio Alvarado ” [Veracruz].	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	discussion	The white-backed hog-nosed skunks were considered as two distinct species. Genetic, morphometric, and color patterns have been used to relegate them to this single species. Three subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. C. l. leuconotus Lichtenstein 1832 — S USA (S Arizona, New Mexico & Texas), most of Mexico (except Yucatan Peninsula) and S to Nicaragua. C. l. figginsi F. W. Miller, 1925 — USA (SE Colorado, NE New Mexico, Oklahoma panhandle). C. l. telmalestes Bailey 1905 — S USA (Big Thicket region of E Texas).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head — - body 34 - 51 cm (males), 38 - 50 cm (females), tail, 14 — 4 lcm (males), 12: 2 - 34 cm (females), length of hindfoot 2: 2 - 9 cm (males), 3 - 9 cm (females) and length of ear 0.8 - 3.6 cm (males), 0.8 - 3.3 cm (females); weight 2 — 4 kg. American Hog-nosed Skunk is as large as or larger than the Striped Skunk. They can be distinguished readily from other skunks by the color pattern of the dorsal pelage. These are the only skunks that lack a white dot or medial bar between the eyes and that have primarily black body fur with a single white stripe. The stripe starts as a single wedgeshaped white patch of fur on the head that widens near the shoulders to approximately half the width of the back. The stripe ranges from substantially reduced or absent on the rump to completely covering the entire back. The tail is white along its total length dorsally, but ventrally it can be black or white at the base. Their body generally is larger, and the tail is shorter in proportion to the body, than in other skunks. American Hog-nosed Skunks can be distinguished from the Striped Hog-nosed Skunks of Central and South America by the single dorsal stripe: the latter have two stripes bilateral to the spine. The snout of American Hog-nosed Skunk is relatively long and the nose pad, which is naked, is about 2 cm wide by 2: 6 cm long, and resembles the nose of a small hog. This species has small and rounded ears. Its legs are stocky and the feet are plantigrade. The hindfeet are broad and large; the soles are naked about half the length of the foot. The upper body is powerfully built for digging and climbing and the foreclaws are very long. The skull is relatively deep (deepest in the temporal region) and the nares are large and truncated. The auditory bullae are not inflated, and the palate ends behind upper molars. The carnassial teeth are not well-developed, and they as well as the large upper molar provide an increased crushing surface. The dental formula is I 3 / 3, C 1 / 1, P 2 / 3, M 1 / 2 = 32. Conepatus resorb the milk teeth prior to birth. The scent glands are at the base of the tail on either side of the rectum. Two major volatile components [(£) - 2 - butene- 1 - thiol and (E) - $ - 2 - butenyl thioacetate | and four minor components (phenylmethanethiol, 2 - methylquinoline, 2 - quinoline-methanethiol, and bis [(£) - 2 - butenyl | disulfide) are found in the anal sac secretions of American Hog-nosed Skunks.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. American Hog-nosed Skunk can be found in canyons, stream beds, and rocky terrain. They also are found in open desertscrub and mesquite-grasslands. In the southcentral part of their range they can be found in tropical areas as well as in mountains and coastal plains. They also are known to visit cornfields surrounded by brush or grassy plains, and scattered thickets of bull-horn acacia and other thorny plants. They can be found in both thorn woodland and riparian forest. In thorn woodland, the trees can vary in density from sparse to thick enough to form a loose canopy. Trees associated with the riparian forest habitat include pecan (Carya illinoensis), sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), Texas persimmon (Diospyros texana), and live-oak (Quercus virginiana). The understory of the riparian forests where hog-nosed skunks have been found includes briers, tall grasses, and tall weeds. American Hog-nosed Skunks have been found in pine — oak forest in the San Carlos Mountains, and north of these mountains on the Tamaulipan plain, which consists of low scrub and cacti. They also can occur in mesquitebrushland and improved pasture habitat where a few areas of semi-open native grassland have been used exclusively for cattle ranching. Thorny brush and cactus constitute the predominant vegetation in the region of southern Texas where these skunks occur.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. They have been observed attacking and devouring small rodents. However, this species is more insectivorous by nature and will spend hours digging for grubs and larvae. They also will eat pears, raisins, squash, green beans, radishes, green peppers, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables (with the exception of lima beans). Naturalists have trouble finding bait suitable for trapping these carnivores and have often had to capture individuals by hand. These skunks also may be capable of obtaining their daily water requirements from their food depending on the moisture content of the menu.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. These skunks are solitary and largely nocturnal, but not strictly so. They have been observed feeding during the heat of the day in New Mexico and Texas. They den in hollows in the roots of trees or fallen trunks and in cavities under rocks, and will take refuge in prickly pear cactus when aggravated. When an American Hognosed Skunk is threatened by a predator, its first response is to flee to cover. It may then turn to face its pursuer and, depending on the size and threat ofthe predator, stand on its hindlegs and even take two or three steps forward. Then it will come down hard on its front paws and exhale a burst of air in a loud hiss. Finally, it will draw its paws under its body, flinging dirt backwards. A defensive, frightened individual will crouch, stomp its front paws, raise its tail and hold it flat against its back, and bare its teeth. In this position it can bite and spray a predator, and will do both. American Hognosed Skunk can squirt a noxious liquid from anal scent glands, either as a mist when the threat is not specifically located, or as a stream directed toward a specific threat. The mist can be emitted while on the run.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. American Hog-nosed Skunks are solitary by nature, but will tolerate each other as well as other species depending on the situation. Males and females stay together briefly during breeding season. Females stay with their litters until early fall, when the young disperse. Little is known about the home range ofthis species.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	breeding	Breeding. These skunks breed from late February through early March. A captive female had a gestation period of at least 70 days. Parturition occurs in April through May, and by late August the young begin to disperse. Females usually have litters of one to three; small litters of one to two half-grown young have been observed in late July through mid- August. American Hog-nosed Skunks have three pairs of mammae.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9125FB56FA0FF56DF94CDDF2.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Not listed with CITES. Classified as Least Concern in The IUCN Red List, but populations have been declining for many years throughout a major portion of its historical range in the USA. The eastern Texas subspecies, ftelmalestes, is presumed extirpated throughoutits range in the Big Thicket region. In his Biological Survey of Texas, V. Bailey wrote, “ the white-backed skunk is said to be the commonest species, and under a trapper’s shed at a ranch on Tarkington Prairie in November, 1904, I saw eight or ten of their skins hanging up to dry with a small number ofskins of Striped Skunk. ” No new specimens of this subspecies have been collected in the Big Thicket area of Texas since Bailey's report in 1905. A telling, albeit fictional, explanation for the skunk’s decline is provided by Larry McMurtry, in his novel Lonesome Dove. one of his characters meets a couple in NE Texas. “ In the dusk it was hard to make out much about her except that she was thin. She was barefoot and had on a dress that looked like it was made from part of a cotton sack. ‘ I gave twenty-eight skunk hides for her, ’ the old man said suddenly ”. A more likely cause for the decline of hog-nosed skunk populations may be found in the increase in the number of trappers or possibly in the increased number of feral hogs that have been introduced into the area. Feral hogs compete, to some degree, with several species of wildlife for certain foods. They eat a variety of items, including fruits, roots, mushrooms, and invertebrates, depending on the season. Their rooting behavior is competitive with the rooting behavior of hog-nosed skunks. Feral hogs can have detectable influences on wildlife and plant communities as well as domestic crops and livestock, extensively disturbing vegetation and soil. In southern Texas, where 95 % of the native vegetation in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas has been transformed from subtropical plant communities to cotton, sorghum, sugar cane, vegetable crops, and citrus orchards, several additional hog-nosed skunk populations may now be extirpated. However, a population was found recently in southern Texas and currently is being studied. Because hog-nosed skunks generally are associated with rough rocky areas and brushy habitat, the conversion of native vegetation to row-crop agriculture may be partially responsible for the skunks’ decline. However, habitat modification may not be the primary cause of the observed decline, because specimens of this skunk have been collected in cultivated areas near Veracruz, Mexico. A more direct cause may be associated with use of pesticides in agriculture. Hog-nosed skunks are primarily insectivorous, and use of pesticides has increased throughout their range in conjunction with row-crop agriculture. In Colorado, no new specimens ofthis species have been collected since 1933. However, a road-killed animal was seen just south of the Colorado border in New Mexico in 2003. American Hog-nosed Skunks are taken by many predators, mainly large canids and felids, and by birds of prey. Additionally, the skunks support numerous parasites. External parasites include fleas (Pulex) and ticks (Ixodes texanus); intestinal parasites are roundworms (Psyalopteris maxillaris) and cestodes; and subcutaneous nematodes (Filaria martis) and Skrjabingylus chitwoodorum — infect the frontal sinuses. In west Texas, American Hog-nosed Skunks have been found infected with several species of helminth parasites, including Filaroides milks, Filaria taxidaea, Gongylonema sp., Macracanthorhynchus ingens, Mathevotaenia mephitis, Oncicola canis, Pachysentis canicola, Physaloptera maxillaris, and P. rara. In natural habitats, hognosed skunks are not known to survive for more than three or four years, but American hog-nosed skunks can live for 16 years or more in captivity.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	materials_examined	“ Chili ”, restricted to “ alrededores de Valparaiso ”. [Chile].	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	discussion	A taxonomic revision of the species is needed. Seven subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. C. c. chinga Molina, 1782 — C Chile coastline (from Coquimbo to Concepcion). C. c. budini Thomas, 1919 — W Argentina (Catamarca, La Rioja, San Juan, San Luis & N Mendoza). C. c. gibsoni Thomas, 1910 — Argentina (Pampas region). C. c. inca Thomas, 1900 — Peru. C. c. mendosus Thomas, 1921 — W Argentina (SW Mendoza) W to C Chile (Los Rios & Los Lagos regions). C. c. rex Thomas, 1898 — Bolivia. C. c. suffocans Illiger, 1815 — SE Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and NE Argentina.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 35 - 49 cm (males), 30 - 45 cm (females), tail 14.6 - 29 cm (males), 13.3 - 28 cm (females); weight 1 - 3 kg. As in most skunk species, males are larger than females. These skunks are slightly larger than the Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks farther south. The pelage color is black, brown, or dark reddish, with two white stripes running down the back slightly to the side. These stripes may or may notjoin on the head. There is considerable variation in color pattern. The ears are short and the nose pad is thick and naked. The palms of the feet are hairless and have thick swellings on the pads. The digits are short and the claws are long. There are 32 teeth, as in other Conepatus. These skunks also have two scent glands at the base ofthe tail just inside the rectum, which are used to expel noxious fluid as a defense mechanism.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. Molina’s Hog-nosed Skunks occur in a variety of habitats and can be found from the dry lowlands to the Altiplano in Bolivia. They have been found from the Paraguayan Chaco to the precordillerean steppe. They forage in grassland, savannas, steppe, and canyons, and den in shrub forests and in talus slopes. Dens in rocky areas are usually found in crevices. Elsewhere, they burrow into the ground, sometimes at the roots of trees, to construct dens. They will also den in caves and use burrows abandoned by other animals. They tend to avoid heavily forested areas. In fact, their populations may increase in areas where forests have been cleared.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Like other skunks, is an omnivorous and opportunistic feeder. Invertebrates constitute the bulk of the diet, but small vertebrates, including frogs, lizards, rodents, and birds as well as bird and reptile eggs are consumed. More vertebrates are consumed during winter months when arthropods are harder to find. Otherwise the diet is similar year round. Arthropod prey items include beetle larvae and spiders. Beetles are found in abundance in skunk faeces even when beetles in the environment are more scarce, suggesting that beetles are a favorite food item.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. These skunks are considered to be crepuscular, but can be active throughout the night with their activity usually starting between 19: 00 h and 22: 00 h. They are active most of the night and settle early in the morning, before 05: 00 h. Much of their time is spent searching for food either by digging up insects or sniffing and searching around brush. They tend to dig less in winter when the ground is frozen.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Molina’s Hog-nosed Skunk is primarily solitary when foraging. Home ranges ofthis species (based on a small sample size) are from 3 - 5 - 12 times larger than home ranges in other Conepatus and average about 195 ha.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	breeding	Breeding. Little is known about the breeding behavior ofthis species. They have been reported to have a single breeding season, like the other South American skunks. They are similar in ecology and habit to the Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunk, so presumably they have a similar gestation period (approximately 60 days) and produce a single annual litter of 2 - 5 offspring. The breeding season may be longer than in other species.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9124FB51FA29F727FD87D246.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Molina’s Hog-nosed Skunks are notlisted with CITES, and are classified as Least Concern in The IUCN Red List. These skunks too have been hunted and trapped for their pelts, which have been used to make blankets. They are susceptible to poisons set out for other animals. They are preyed upon by various birds of prey as well as larger mammalian carnivores. This species also harbors several internal and external parasites.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	materials_examined	Originally described from “ Mexico ”. Type locality later described as “ Minas de Montuosa, cerca de Pamplona, departamento del norte de Santander, Colombia ”.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	discussion	Eight subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. C. s. semistriatus Boddaert, 1785 — Colombia and Venezuela. C. s. amazonicus Lichtenstein, 1838 — NE & C Brazil. C. s. conepatl Gmelin, 1788 — SE Mexico (Veracruz and along coast to Campeche). C. s. quitensis Humboldt, 1812 — Ecuador. C. s. taxinus Thomas, 1924 — higher elevation in N Peru. C. s. trichurus Thomas, 1905 — Costa Rica, W Panama. C. s. yucatanicus Goldman, 1943 — SE Mexico (Yucatan & Quintana Roo), Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. C. s. zorrino Thomas, 1900 — low hot desert regions of N Peru.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 35 - 50 cm (males) and 33 - 45 cm (females), tail 14 - 3 — 30 - 9 cm (males) and 13.5 - 26 cm (females); weight 1.4 - 3.5 kg. The tail is less than half the total body length. Striped Hog-nosed Skunks in South America tend to get smaller from north to south. The Striped Hog-nosed Skunk is larger than the other South American species, Molina’s and Humboldt’ ' s Hog-nosed Skunks. The pelage coloration typically is black with two narrow white stripes running from the head to the rump. There is extensive variation in color pattern. Striped hog-nosed Skunks have small, pig-like noses that are used for rooting insects. Like other Conepatus, the claws are long and the forelimbs are adapted for digging. These skunks also are able to spray a noxious fluid as a means of defense.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. Striped Hog-nosed Skunks use grasslands with scattered palms, sparse deciduous forests, shrub woodlands, and open grassy areas mixed with sedges and herbaceous plants during the dry season. They prefer not to hang out in areas that have prolonged dry seasons. During the wet season they spend more time on higher ground in deciduousforests. Clearings and pastures near evergreen forests also are frequented by this species. Den sites are dug among tree roots or fallen trees. Burrows are about 1 - 2 m in length and about 0 - 3 m below the surface. When not using the burrows dug for themselves these skunks will use burrows dug by other animals such as armadillos.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Like other hog-nosed skunks, this species is an opportunistic omnivore. They feed on many invertebrates, but may not dig as much as the other species. Additionally, they consume small vertebrates, including reptiles, mammals, and birds, as well as fruits when they are available.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. Striped Hog-nosed Skunks are primarily nocturnal. They become active shortly after sunset. One animal was reported to become active between 19: 30 h and 24: 00 h and stay out for about six hours at a time. The phase of the moon appeared not to affect activity periods. Though it is not outside the realm of possibility, these skunks rarely are seen during daylight hours.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Like other skunks, these animals are primarily solitary (except for mothers with offspring). Home ranges can cover from 18 - 53 ha.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	breeding	Breeding. These skunks breed in the early spring. Gestation lasts about 60 days. Litter sizes can range from 2 - 5. Otherwise, little is known about the breeding behavior of this species.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB51FF0BF8ADF6B7D161.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Notlisted with CITES, and classified as Least Concern in The IUCN Red List. The status of this skunk is uncertain. Although not abundant, this species appears to do well in disturbed environments.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	materials_examined	Magellan Straits, Chile.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	discussion	Two of the subspecies have been regarded as distinct species, but morphology and color pattern have been used to relegate them to subspecies of C. humboldtii. Three subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. C. h. humboldtii Gray, 1837 — Patagonia (Chile and Argentina) to the Strait of Magellan. C. h. castaneus d’Orbigny & Gervais, 1847 — C Argentina (S provinces of Buenos Aires & La Pampa to N Rio Negro; it also follows along the Colorado and Black Rivers to Neuquen and S Mendoza). C. h. proteus Thomas, 1902 — subandean C Argentina (Catamarca, La Rioja, San Juan, San Luis & N Mendoza).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 22 - 32 cm (males), 20 - 30 cm (females), tail 16.5 - 20.2 cm (males) and 18 - 18.5 cm (females); weight 0.5 - 2.5 kg. Males on average are about 4 - 6 % heavier than females. Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks tend to be the smallest of the hog-nosed skunks. These skunks, like all South American skunks, have a double stripe similar to that seen in North American Striped Skunks. Typically, they are black and white, but they can range in color from black to dark brown or reddish brown. It has been suggested that the brownish color appears as the result of age. There is considerable variation in the striping pattern. Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks do not have any white markings between the eyes. The tail generally is shorter in proportion to the body than in other skunks. The forelimbs and claws are well adapted for digging. Like other skunks in the genus the nose is long and flexible and used for rooting for burrowing insects. The post carnassial molars have large grinding areas relative to the cutting edge of their carnassial teeth.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks use a variety of habitats. They prefer to den in flat or rolling topography. These skunks will den in shallow caves, below tree roots, in hollow trees, under rocks and cracks between stones, and in abandoned tunnels of other animals. They will use habitat from desert areas to forests. In addition to being found in shrub or forest cover, they use man-made structures, denning under buildings and woodpiles. They use areas with natural herbaceous vegetation, except where poisons are used to control the Culpeo (Pseudalopex culpaeus). They are susceptible to poisoning although not targeted. They do however, prefer more open, grassy areas compared to the drier shrubby environments.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. These skunks are opportunistic feeders and usually capture their prey easily. They generally find their prey by sniffing and digging, using their flexible noses and long claws, primarily in grassy habitats. Like other skunks in the genus they eat a variety of insects, including ground beetles and their larvae, grasshoppers, crickets, and spiders. They will consume fruit when it is available. These skunks also eat a variety of vertebrates, such as lizards and rodents. Carrion is eaten in larger quantities than expected based on relative abundance, when compared with other food items. This would suggest that this species is more carnivorous than insectivorous, but still opportunistic. They also are known to frequent urban garbage sites and vegetable gardens.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. This species is generally nocturnal or crepuscular in nature. Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks become more active during the day as winter approaches, and are less active when there is snow cover. They use a variety of den sites during the day and normally do not use the same den site for more than a couple of days at a time. They will however, reuse dens that they occupied previously. They are active for about 50 % of the day. Their activity period starts between 20: 00 - 22: 00 h and continues until 07: 00 h the next morning. Some skunks will remain active until 09: 00 h and even until 12: 00 h. They rarely are seen between 12: 00 - 19: 00 h. During periods of activity they have been observed digging or foraging, walking, and even playing. Young animals will venture as far as 1 - 3 km from their natal dens to survey new territory before returning home. They may eventually relocate to the areas they investigated.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks tend to be solitary for most of their lives. However, in stable areas where shelters are secure, small groups of young individuals may den together. These individuals usually are related and will stay together until they become adults. The home range ofjuvenile skunks increases in the fall and winter as they explore new areas away from the natal home range. Home rangesizesare relatively small and are about 7 - 16 ha. Home ranges of different individuals can overlap. These skunks usually are not found in high numbers. Density estimates of 0 - 04 to 0 - 16 km * have been reported in Chile.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	breeding	Breeding. Little is known about the reproductive biology of these skunks. The young are born in the spring and disperse in late summer. Gestation has been recorded as short as 42 days, but probably is closer to 60 days. Females generally have only one litter per year and the litters range from 2 - 5 offspring.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9123FB50FA00FBB9FDEBD04B.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Currently, Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks is listed with CI'TIES as Appendix II. They are considered Least Concern on The IUCN Red List. The pelt of this species has been used for blankets, and as a result they were hunted and over 100,000 skins were exported. In several areas in Chile it has been suggested that hunt ing pressures be reduced or stopped in order to conserve this species. Humboldt’s Hog-nosed Skunks are preyed upon by various raptors as well as Puma. Grazing pressures potentially could decrease populations of this skunk. Additionally, they have been eliminated in some areas as a result of poisoning of other species.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	materials_examined	Gebirgs-Gegenden nord-westlich von der Stadt Mexico ” (Mexico, mountains north-west of Mexico City).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	discussion	Four subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. M. m. macroura Lichtenstein, 1832 — C & W Mexico (Nayarit E to Tamaulipas) and S to Honduras, but not including the Yucatan Peninsula. M. m. eximius Hall & Dalquest, 1950 — E Mexico (S Veracruz). M. m. milleri Mearns, 1897 — N Mexico (Sonora and Sinaloa to Coahuila N) to S USA (S Arizona, New Mexico & Texas). M. m. richardsoni Goodwin, 1957 — Nicaragua and Costa Rica.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head — body averages about 31 cm (males) and 28 cm (females), tail 27 - 43 cm; weight averages 957 g (males) 882 g (females). Individuals achieve their greatest weight by late summer. Hooded Skunks in the more southern part of their range are smaller than animals in the northern part of the range. Hooded Skunks have three typical color patterns, but there is considerable variation. These patterns are: two thin stripes running down the side of the body from the shoulder to midabdomen; a single band running down the back from the forehead to the tail (this single white stripe is interspersed with black hair giving a gray appearance), and a combination of both. These skunks also have a white bar between the eyes. The skull is similar to that of the Striped Skunk, but the auditory bullae are larger. Hooded Skunk can be differentiated externally from Striped Skunk by the long hairs on the back of the neck and head, its relatively longer tail, and larger ears. The anal secretions of the Hooded Skunk have seven major components, which comprise 99 % of the volatiles. These components are (E) - 2 - butene- 1 - thiol, 3 - methyl- 1 - butanethiol, S- (E) - 2 - butenyl thioacetate, S- 3 - methylbutenyl thioacetate, 2 - phenylethanethiol, 2 - methylquinoline, and 2 - quinolinemethanethiol. There are several minor components as well, including phenylmethanethiol, S-phenylmethyl thioacetate, S- 2 - phenylethyl thioacetate, bis [(E) - 2 - butenyl] disulfide, (E) - 2 - butenyl 3 - methylbutyl disulfide, bis (3 - methylbutyl) disulfide, and S- 2 - quinolinemethyl thioacetate. The Hooded Skunk’s secretion contains four compounds not reported from the Striped Skunk: phenylmethanethiol, Sphenylmethyl thioacetate, 2 - phenylethanethiol, and S- 2 - phenylethyl thioacetate.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. This skunk occurs in a wide variety of temperate and tropical habitats. It is most common in arid lowlands, but also occurs in deciduous or ponderosa forest, forest edges, pastures, rocky canyons, and riparian habitats. Hooded Skunks use similar habitats to Striped Skunks, but are found more often in scrub and urban habitats. Hooded Skunks occur from sea level to 3110 m, in low elevation desert areas (below 2500 m), in rocky canyons, or in heavily vegetated streamsides and valleys, often in association with mesquite, pine — oak, and other shrubs and grasses. Hooded Skunks appearto prefer intermediate elevationsin rockyslopes, at the bases ofcliffs, or on the rocky sides of arroyos, but are also encountered in heavy growth of weeds and shrubs in riparian areas. Dense, brushy cover of stream sides may be important for this species. Hooded Skunks den in holes dug in the ground, rock crevices, and holes in logs. They have even been observed denning more than 1 m above ground in trees, but they are more likely to den on rocky hillsides. They prefer woodland habitats more than do Striped Skunks. In agricultural areas Hooded Skunks den along fencerows, beneath irrigation canals, and in heavily vegetated areas along streams. Hooded Skunks are less likely than Striped Skunks to den around human dwellings. However, radio-collared individuals were frequently located under buildings and sheds and in culverts.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. The diet of this species consists primarily of insects (including beetles and grasshoppers), fruits, small vertebrates, and birds’ eggs. Hooded Skunks break chicken eggs by throwing them between their back legs rather than biting them. Vertebrates are taken opportunistically. When foraging, Hooded Skunk moves slowly, snuffling among leaves and pouncing on grasshoppers and beetles.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. Hooded Skunks remain active all year and have been trapped in the winter. The anal glands are used in self defense. One animal was observed spraying nine times in eleven seconds and again three more times 90 minutes later. The defensive behavior of Hooded Skunk is similar to that of Striped Skunk. Hooded Skunks are active after dusk and travel along rock walls, streambeds, and in weedy fields. They tend to be solitary except when females are raising young, although several may dine together at a feeding station. Females normally do not den together during the winter months.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Home ranges of Hooded Skunks can occupy from 2: 8 - 5 - 0 km? Densities of 1: 3 - 3 - 9 up to 25 Hooded Skunks / km? * have been reported. Females, when not nursing, tend to stay at a den site longer than males before moving to a different den within the home range. Males will move greater distances from one densite to the next compared to females. The skunks’ home ranges are smaller in urban areas. Urban skunks share mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotypes with non-urban skunks, which suggests that gene flow occurs between urban and non-urban skunk populations. Genetic data suggest that Hooded Skunks in urban areas represent newer, expanding populations (lower genetic diversity) compared to urban Striped Skunks, which have higher genetic diversity and more stable populations. They are more common in urbanized areas than previously thought, and in some places are more numerous than Striped Skunks. Their numbers are often underreported because it can be difficult to distinguish the two species. Skunks can actually be beneficial because they eat insect pests and rodents.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	breeding	Breeding. The reproductive biology of the Hooded Skunk is poorly known. Breeding likely takes place from mid-February to the end of March. Males have a baculum, and females have two pairs of inguinal, one pair of abdominal, and two pairs of pectoral mammae. Litter size ranges from 3 - 8. Females may nurse young through August.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB50FF56F9E7F5DBDE43.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Classified as Least Concern in The IUCN Red List. Little is known about the status of this species, but they may not be uncommon in some parts of their range in the SW USA. However, in Texas, there is concern about population levels and that the species may no longer occur in that state. In Mexico, they are very abundant and survive in human-altered habitats such as cultivated fields, pastures, and suburban areas. There is a need for more research on Hooded Skunks. During a four year study period in Arizona, survival rates of adult skunks were low (24 - 56 %). Predation accounted for most of the mortality, but disease and parasites were contributing factors. Great horned owls (Bubo virginianus), mountain lions, bobcats, jaguars, and coyotes may kill Hooded Skunks. Captive Hooded Skunks have lived for at least eight years. Historically, the pelt has not been considered to be of great value, so this skunk has not been hunted to the extent that other species have. Its fur is very long, light, and of low economic value. The flesh has been used for food in some areas, and the fat and scent glands have been used for medicinal purposes. Roundworms (Physaloptera maxillaries), fleas (Pulicidae), and the nematode Skrjabingylus chitwoodorum occur in Hooded Skunks in Trans Pecos, Texas. A new species of Skrjabingylus (S. santaceciliae) was recently described in this skunk species. Rabies rarely is reported in Hooded Skunks; however, a case of rabies in this species has been documented. There is no reason to suspect that they do not contract the virus; more likely they go unnoticed or are misidentified as Striped Skunks. Hooded Skunks also are susceptible to feline distemper. Hooded Skunks have been found with numerous fleas, ticks, lice, and mites.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	materials_examined	eastern Canada [Province of Quebec].	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	discussion	A complete taxonomic revision has not been done since 1901. Thirteen subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. M. m. mephitis Schreber, 1776 — E Canada. M. m. avia Bangs, 1898 — Midwestern USA (Most of Illinois, N half of Missouri & E half of Kansas). M. m. elongata Bangs, 1895 — E & SE USA (Virginia S to E Georgia, Florida, S Alabama & Mississippi). M. m. estor Merriam, 1890 — W USA (S Utah through Arizona and W New Mexico) to N Mexico (Sonora & Chihuahua). M. m. holzerni Mearns, 1897 — SW USA (S California). M. m. hudsonica Richardson, 1829 — C & W Canada and NC USA (from NE Washington to Wisconsin and S into Colorado). M. m. major Howell, 1901 — NW USA (N Nevada & Utah to Oregon & Idaho). M. m. mesomelas Lichtenstein, 1832 — S USA (W Texas & Oklahoma to Arkansas & Louisiana). M. m. nigra Peale & Palisot de Beauvois, 1796 — SE Canada (New Brunswick & Nova Scotia) and E USA (from New England to Ohio & Indiana and S to Mississippi & Alabama. M. m. notata Howell, 1901 — NW USA (C Washington). M. m. occidentalis Baird, 1858 — W USA (N California to SW Oregon). M. m. spissigrada Bangs, 1898 — NW USA (W Washington). M. m. varians Gray, 1837 — S Great Plains USA (E New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma & Kansas) S to NW Mexico (Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 23 - 40 cm (males), 17 - 34 cm (females), tail length 20 - 47 cm (males), 15 - 36.3 cm (females); weight 0.8 - 4.1 kg (males), 0.6 - 3.6 kg (females). Striped Skunks are about the size of house cats, with small triangularshaped heads. The basic color of skunksis black and white, but other colors, such as brown and red, have been observed in the wild. The typical pattern seen in Striped Skunksis the white “ V 7 ” down the back and a white bar running between the eyes from the forehead to the middle of the rostrum. Color pattern in Striped Skunksis highly variable and can range from completely black to completely white (non-albino). The striping pattern cannot be used to determine the sex of the animal, nor can it be used to predict how much snow will fall. Skunks are born with theirstripes before they have hair. The nose pad is relatively small, and the ears are small and rounded. Striped Skunks have short stocky legs and five toes on each foot. They walk on the soles (plantigrade) of their feet. Occasionally, the heel of the hindfeet will be lifted off the ground when they walk. The claws on the front feet are longer than those of the back feet. The tail is less than half the total body length, with long flowing hairs. The skull is heavy and squarish and widest at the attachment of the zygomata, and the forehead is convex. The dental formula for Striped Skunks is 13 / 3, C 1 / 1, P 3 / 3, M 1 / 2, for a total of 34 teeth. The anal secretions of this animal are composed of several major volatile components. These components include: E) - 2 - butene- 1 - thiol, 3 - methyl- 1 - butanethiol, S- (E) - 2 - butenyl thioacetate, $ - 3 - methylbutanyl thioacetate, 2 - methylquinoline, 2 - quinolinemethanethiol, and $ 2 - quinolinemethyl thioacetate.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. Striped Skunks use a variety of habitats and tend to be more numerous where good cover and abundant food are available. They can be found in open, exposed arcas, but prefer brushy, weedy stream and gulch bottoms or canyons. In open areas they will burrow into banks or even level ground and as a result are able to occupy many habitats. Other habitats where they can be found include a mixture of woodlands, brushy corners, and open fields broken by wooded ravines and rocky outcrops. They will also utilize cultivated areas, pasture, and hay crops. In other parts of their range they use wetlands surrounded by agricultural areas, grasslands, woodlot edges, fencelines, and refuse piles. Striped Skunks may not have a preference for any particular habitat as long as food and shelter are available.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Striped Skunks are opportunistic omnivores. With the exception of lima beans, most skunks will eat almost anything. They will feast primarily on insects, such as beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, moths, cutworms, caterpillars, bees, and wasps. They also will eat earthworms, snakes, snails, clams, crayfish, fish, frogs, mice, moles, rats, squirrels, wild fruits, grains, corn, nuts, birds’ eggs, carrion, and garbage. Striped Skunks use their long foreclawsto dig for insects and grubs. They will search in rotten or fallen logs for mice and insects. Around gardens they will forage forripe fruits and vegetables, but they primarily are looking for insects, and benefit gardeners by eating insects that can damage garden crops. They also will take advantage of any pet food left outside.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. Striped Skunks are crepuscular or nocturnal. In the northern part of their range they may go into a torpor (they are not true hibernators) during cold spells or when snow coveris particularly deep. However, in the southern parts of the range, they may actually be more active during the milder winters. When a Striped Skunk perceives a threat, its first responseis to run away. If that does not work, it will spray a noxious chemical from the anal scent glands. However, before spraying, skunks use a series of threat behaviors. They will stomp the ground with both front feet. Sometimes they will charge forward a few paces and then stomp or will edge backwards while dragging their front feet, all the while with the tail up in the air. Each scent gland has a nipple associated with it and skunks can aim and direct the spray with highly coordinated muscle control. When a skunk is being chased by a predator, but cannot see the predator, the spray is emitted as an atomized cloud that the predator must run through. This is the “ shotgun ” method and usually is enough to deter most predators. When the skunk has a target to focus on the spray is emitted as a stream directed at the predator’s face. This is the “ 357 Magnum ” technique. Trapped or cornered skunks will curl into a “ U ” shape so that both ends face the predator.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Home ranges of Striped Skunks can be quite variable depending on the available resources (food and shelter primarily). Where there is plenty of food, skunks will tend to have smaller ranges. Home ranges are reported for anywhere from 0 - 5 km? to over 12 km?. Although Striped Skunks are often found dead on the road, they tend to avoid crossing roads with heavy traffic, and these roads can set the boundaries for some home ranges. During the winter months in the northern part of their range, Striped Skunks become more sedentary and cover less area on their nightly forays. In the southern part of their range, their home ranges remain about the samesize year-round. Striped Skunks are solitary most of the time. In the winter females (and occasionally a single male) may den together to conserve heatand body fat. Most malesare solitary during the winter. In the southern partof the range communal dens are rarely found during the winter months. During the summer femalesraise their young, and by early fall the young have left the den.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	breeding	Breeding. Striped Skunk usually breed from February through March and the young are born starting in April, but births can continue until early June. These skunks usually only go into estrus once a year. However, if a litter is lost early a second litter may be produced. Striped Skunks will breed in their first year, and young males will exhibit breeding behavior in mid- to late summerof their first year, although they are not yet in reproductive condition. Females are usually in estrus for about a week and a half. Striped Skunks are induced ovulators. Ovulation occurs between 40 and 50 hours after first insemination. Males will breed with many females given the opportunity. Most of the females become pregnant by the end ofthe breeding season. Gestation usually lasts from 59 - 77 days. Females that breed early in the season may undergo a short period of delayed implantation. Striped Skunks can have as many as twelve offspring perlitter, but the average is about 5 - 7. Females usually have twelve mammae, but the number can range from ten to 15. Young skunks are born blind, deaf, and naked. Within a couple of days the black and white hairs cover the pink and white skin. They are born with their scent glands intact and are capable of spraying within the first week of birth. The early scent is more a gas than a liquid. The eyes and ears open after about 28 days (sometimes earlier). After about 6 - 8 weeks the young are weaned. They begin to forage and explore with mom at this time. By the end of summer or early fall the young begin to disperse.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9122FB53FA50F497F632DD2A.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Classified as Least Concern in The IUCN Red List. Striped Skunks are not considered for any kind of protection as they appear to be doing well throughout their range. Some of the earliest legislation to protect skunks, in the form of closed trapping seasons, was in New York in 1894. Farmers recognized that skunks were the only effective predators of the hop grub and their service in combating the grub made them valuable assets. Striped Skunks are known to harbor numerous ectoparasites and endoparasites, including fleas, lice, ticks, mites, and various helminth infestations. Intestinal roundworms, nematodes, and lung flukes have been reported. Parasite loads can be a major contributor to mortality. Skunks are a primary vector of rabies in some parts of their range. They also have been found to be infected with canine distemper, histoplasmosis, leptospirosis, listerosis, mycoplasma, pulmonary aspergillosis, sarcocystis, streptococcus, toxoplasma, tularemia, and West Nile Virus. Natural mammalian predators for skunks include humans, domestic dogs, coyotes, red foxes, lynx, bobcats, badgers, mountain lions, and fishers. Various birds of prey including great horned owls, eagles, crows, and vultures also will eat skunks. Turnover in skunk populations is high, so a large percentage of animals in any population consist of young of the year. The average lifespan for wild skunksis about 2 - 3 - 5 years. However, Striped Skunks kept in captivity live on average to about 8 - 12 years of age.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	discussion	Taxonomy. Spilogale pygmaea Thomas, 1898,	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	materials_examined	Rosario, Sinaloa, W. Mexico.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. S. p. pygmaea Thomas, 1898 — W Mexico (Pacific coastal regions of Sinaloa & Nayarit). S. p. australis Hall, 1938 — W Mexico (Pacific coastal region from Michoacan to Guerrero & Oaxaca). S. p. intermedia L. opez-Forment & Urbano, 1979 — W Mexico (Pacific coastal regions ofJalisco & Colima).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 19 - 21 cm, tail 6.7 - 7.3 cm (males) and 5.9 - 6.7 cm (females), hindfoot 2.3 - 4 cm, ear 1.8 - 3.3 cm; weight 150 - 320 g. Tail length has been used to distinguish the sexes. The Pygmy Spotted Skunk is the smallest of the skunks. The body is elongated and the legs are relatively short. This skunk has six continuous white stripes running down the back and sides; the rest of the fur color is brown to black. There is a white stripe across the forehead above the eyes that continues down the side of the body. Pygmy Spotted Skunks have a short rostrum with a black nose pad, short, rounded ears, short legs, and slender feet with small curved claws. The skull is small and fragile and does not have a sagittal crest. The dental formulais 13 / 3, C 1 / 1, P 3 / 3, M 1 / 2 for a total of 34 teeth. These skunks have small canines but relatively large molars.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. These skunks inhabit deciduous tropical forest, semi-evergreen forest, and desert scrub. They have been observed in coastal sand dunes with only herbaceous vegetation for cover. They have a patchy distribution, but nearly all individuals have been captured in coastal habitats. However, remains have been found in owl pellets about 115 km from the coast at an altitude of 500 m. They are found from sea level up to 1630 m, but are generally found below 350 m. Pygmy Spotted Skunksare scarce, but if enough habitat is preserved, they are believed to be able to survive in disturbed environments.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Pygmy Spotted Skunks are opportunistic feeders and consume a variety of invertebrates. Rodents are not taken as frequently as by other spotted skunks, but may be selected as alternative prey when the availability of arthropods is low. Spiny pocket mice are common in the tropical dry forest, and during the dry season, their density is high. During this season rodents also may be easier to detect due to the desiccation ofleaflitter. Birds are rarely taken by these skunks and plant material is less likely to be consumed, although, highly digestible fruits may be eaten. Pygmy Spotted Skunks use food sources such as ants, beetles, and spiders in relation to their abundance in the environment. However, some invertebrates, such as insect larvae, millipedes and centipedes, are selected in higher abundance. True bugs (Hemiptera) tend to be avoided as do crickets and grasshoppers (Orthoptera). Pygmy Spotted Skunks will eat cockroaches (Blattaria) during the dry season; they may select food items in response to seasonal variation in prey abundance.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. They are nocturnal and den underground or in fallen logs, among rocks, or simply under dense vegetation. They will use dens dug by other animals such as gophers, squirrels, armadillos, and turtles. They use pathways and stream beds to move to and from bodies of water. Much of their activity occurs below the leaf litter or brush, where they search for the burrows of small rodents. Pygmy Spotted Skunks stomp their feet when threatened. They have been observed doing a partial handstand similar to other species of spotted skunks. Anal secretions are usually only released as a last resort.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. These skunks are solitary most of the year except during the breeding season. Males will defend their territory against other males, and only allow females access to their territory.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	breeding	Breeding. Breeding occurs from April through August, with most births occurring around July and August. Gestation usually lasts from 43 - 51 days, and there may be a short period of delayed implantation. More than one litter per year may be produced. The number of young perlitter can range from one to six in this species. The young are born with fine white hair, but the skin pigmentation pattern is similar to that of adults. Newborn kits weigh about 7 g, and their eyes and ears do not open until they are 29 - 32 days old. Most of the teeth are present at 47 days.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9121FB52FA02F644FB53DDF5.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Not listed with CITES. Classified as Vulnerable in The IUCN Red List. This skunk is locally abundant in certain areas, but is considered to be vulnerable throughout much of its range in Mexico due to habitat destruction as a result of tourist resort and road construction. These animals also have been stuffed and sold as souvenirs. Skulls have been recovered from barn owl pellets, and snakes and other carnivores probably prey on Pygmy Spotted Skunks. They have been found with various parasites including ticks, cestodes, nematode, and intestinal worms.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	materials_examined	South Carolina.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	discussion	Three subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. S. p. putorius Linnaeus, 1758 — E & SE USA (Mississippi, Alabama & N Florida, through Georgia, N to SC Pennsylvania). S. p. ambarvalis Bangs, 1898 — SE USA (Peninsular Florida). S. p. interrupta Rafinesque, 1820 — USA (Canadian border in Minnesota, C North Dakota, E Wyoming, E Colorado, W Oklahoma, NW Texas, south to C Texas, and east to the Mississippi River along Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri & Iowa, up to Wisconsin.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. There is considerable variation in size of Eastern Spotted Skunks. Head-body 23 - 33 cm, mean 30 cm (males), and 19 - 33 cm, mean 29 cm (females), tail 8 - 28 cm, mean 16 - 4 cm (males), and 8: 5 - 21 cm, mean 15 - 4 cm (females); weight 276 - 885 g (males) and 207 - 475 g (females). Eastern Spotted Skunks are smaller than Striped Skunks and more weasel-like in body shape. The pelage of Eastern Spotted Skunks is black with a complex striping pattern of six stripes; the stripes can be interrupted, giving a somewhat spotted appearance. There are usually two white spots on the rump, as well as a white spot between the eyes. The dorsal stripes run down the vertebral column from the head toward the tail. Two stripes run below the dorsal stripes over the shoulder and continue across the ears, forming a small white spot in front of the ears. A third set ofstripes continues from the front feet past the end of the shoulder stripes. Locomotion in Eastern Spotted Skunksis plantigrade and these skunks run with their bodies low to the ground. While walking more slowly and cautiously, they will extend their limbs and raise their heads to get higher off the ground. Spotted skunks have five toes on each foot. They are not such efficient diggers as Conepatus or Mephitis, but are much more agile and able to climb. The dental formula for this species is 13 / 3, C 1 / 1, P 3 / 3, M 1 / 2, totaling 34 teeth. The P? is always small and may be absent.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. These skunks are rarely found in the open, preferring either forested areas or habitats containing significant vegetative cover. In the Plains States, these skunks inhabit riparian woodlands and areas of vegetation along fences. They also are found in brushy and rocky habitats, but avoid wetlands. They have been observed on sandy soils and beaches in Florida. Eastern Spotted Skunks seem to prefer habitat with extensive vegetative cover, as this cover provides protection from various predators. They den in protected, dark, dry holes including natural crevices in trees, and will den off the ground to an elevation of seven meters in hollow trees. They dig their own burrows, or den in holes previously occupied by other animals, in talus slopes, haystacks, under houses or rocks, and in the walls of houses or barns. They prefer warm holes in the winter and cool dens in the summer, and will change den sites to accommodate these needs.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Eastern Spotted Skunks forage primarily at night. They are secretive and not often seen. These skunks are exceptional mousers and do farmers a great service when they forage around barns and buildings. They are omnivores, but tend to be more carnivorous than Mephitis or Conepatus. The diet consists mainly of insects, small mammals, birds, and birds’ eggs. Like a center hiking an American football, the skunk uses its front paws to throw an egg through its back legs in order to crack the shell. These skunks also will eat fruits and vegetables in the summer and fall when they are available.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. They are generally nocturnal. They usually avoid moonlit nights. On nights when the moon is not out they normally have two periods of activity. They will come out soon after sunset and again before sunrise. They will be active throughout the night as well. Eastern Spotted Skunks have been observed during the day on rare occasions. Spotted skunks are quite agile and are capable of climbing. This agility also can be observed in their threat behavior as they are able to perform front handstands. When faced with a potential predator, the skunk rushes forward, then stands on its forepaws with its hind end elevated off the ground. This behavior has been reported to last for up to eight minutes in short, 2 - 5 second bursts of handstanding. However, a young, captive animal from a wildlife rehabilitation effort was observed crouching under a couch on all fours until a domestic cat came into the room. The skunk rushed out from under the couch toward the cat. As soon as its tail cleared the cushion it went into a handstand / run. The cat began to trot away. The skunk followed on its frontfeet, bouncing around a table, about 1 - 5 m and then jumped up on a stand approximately 6 cm off the ground, ran along the stand, hopped off the end and continued to chase the cat to the other end of the room. The cat finally ran off and the skunk dropped down on all fours and went back under the couch. Spotted skunks have been reported to spray from the hand-stand position, but they usually drop down and face the predator with both ends in a “ U ” shape. The handstand is usuallyjust a threat behavior used to drive off the predator.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. These skunks usually den alone, but in cold winter months several skunks may bed down together. They usually use more than one den site within their home range. Eastern Spotted Skunks move from den to den and more than one individual has been captured at the same den site in capture-recapture studies. They may also share dens, but with only one animal using the den at a time. Captive male animals have been reported to be aggressive toward one another to the point of one animal killing the other. Females tended not to engage in fatal fights, but remained defensive while in the same cage. Young animals will wrestle and screech at one another, but will also sleep together. Young animals will usually separate before reaching full adulthood. Spotted skunks have a patchy distribution throughout their range. Where they occur they can be found at a density of about nine animals per km? to about 20 and even 40 per km ”. Eastern Spotted Skunks tend to move greater distances in the spring than in the summer and fall. Home ranges can be up to 4359 ha.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	breeding	Breeding. Reproduction in the Eastern Spotted Skunk is different from that in the Western Spotted Skunk. The main breeding season for this species is during March and April, although some individuals may breed again in July, August, or September to produce a second litter. Gestation is estimated to be from 50 to 65 days, with only a two-week period of delayed implantation. First-season litters are produced in late May and early June. Litter size averages five but ranges from 2 - 9 kits. Young are born naked or with sparse, fine, black and white pelage. The claws are well- developed at birth. The eyes and ears open at about 30 days and teeth become visible at 32 days. They can make squealing vocalizations at an early age. The young are weaned after about two months.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC9120FB5DFF58F721FBABD779.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Notlisted in CITES. Classified as Least Concern in The [UCN Red List. However, there has been concern over the lack of observations of this species throughout its range in the last few decades. Population densities of Eastern Spotted Skunks were believed to be low when settlers first arrived on the Great Plains. When small farm operations flourished there prior to the 1920 s, spotted skunks became more numerous as farm buildings provided shelter as well as a supply of mice and rats. When the small farms gave way to larger operations, the density of spotted skunks became lower. Today, the Eastern Spotted Skunk is considered to be threatened in many of the states within its historical range. Natural predators of spotted skunks include larger carnivores such as domestic dogs, coyotes, foxes, feral cats and bobcats, and birds of prey such as owls. Ectoparasites found on Eastern Spotted Skunks include fleas and ticks, and endoparasites include various tapeworms, roundworms, and coccidian protozoans. Humans also are known to be a major cause of mortality because of the number of skunks hit by cars. Pneumonia and coccidiosis are diseases that have been reported in this species. Rabies has been reported, but rarely. Histoplasmosis has also been found, and microfilaria, listeriosis, mastitis, tularemia, distemper, and Q fever are likely to affect Eastern Spotted Skunks.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	materials_examined	Grand Canon of the Colorado (altitude 3500 feet), Arizona, north of San Francisco Mountain.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	discussion	Western Spotted Skunks were once considered the same species as Eastern Spotted Skunks. Chromosomal and reproductive data have been used to elevate these skunks to specific status. Seven subspecies are recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. S. g. gracilis Merriam, 1890 — W USA (from E Washington & E Oregon to NE California, and then E to W Montana & E Wyoming to C Colorado, and possibly the Black Hills, South Dakota. Then S to N New Mexico, N Arizona, C Nevada and E & C California). S. g. amphialus Dickey, 1929 — SW USA (occurs only on Santa Rosa I and Santa Cruz I in Santa Barbara County, California). S. g. latifrons Merriam, 1890 — SW Canada (SW British Columbia) S and W to NW USA (Washington and Oregon). The distribution follows the crest of the Cascade Mts. S. g. leucoparia Merriam, 1890 — S USA (found from C Arizona, C New Mexico, and W & C central Texas) S to N Mexico (Coahuila & C Durango). S. g. lucasana Merriam, 1890 — NW Mexico (S Baja California N to Santo Domingo on the W coast and La Paz on the E coast). S. g. martirensis Elliot, 1903 — NW Mexico (N & C Baja California). S. g. phenax Merriam, 1890 — SW USA (From California west to crest of Sierra Nevada).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Head-body 25 - 37 cm (males) and 24 - 27 cm (females), tail 10 - 21 cm (males) and 8: 5 - 20.3 cm (females); weight 255 - 997 g (males) and 269 - 566 g (females). Spilogale is more weasel-like in body plan than any of the other genera (Mephatis, Conepatus, Mydaus). Western Spotted Skunks are similar in color pattern to the Eastern Spotted Skunks in that they also have six stripes along the back and sides. One set ofstripes runs parallel to the backbone, and beside those stripes is another set that extends past the shoulders and over the ears. The third set of stripes runs from the shoulder to the abdomen and then curves upwards towards the back. There is also a spot on each of the hips. The color pattern may break up the body outline on moonless nights. Where the two species potentially come together the Western Spotted Skunks tends to have wider white stripes and a larger spot between the eyes. The Western Spotted Skunks is reportedly longer and more slender with a longertail than the Eastern Spotted Skunks. The feet each have five toes and locomotion is plantigrade. Western Spotted Skunks are quite capable climbers. The skull is flatter and wider than that of the Eastern Spotted Skunks, and the front region of the skull is depressed to the level of the cranium. The baculum of the Western Spotted Skunk is shorter than and not as curved as that of the Eastern Spotted Skunk. Western Spotted Skunks also have two muscular musk glands at the base of the tail inside the anal sphincter. These glands are capable of ejecting a noxious yellow fluid that is used in defense to deter a predator. The musk is composed of three major thiols, (E) - 2 - butene-I-thiol, 3 - methyl- 1 - butanethiol, and 2 - phenylethanethiol, and several minor components, including phenylmethanethiol, 2 - methyl-quinoline, 2 - quinoline methanethiol, bis [(E) - 2 - butenyl] disulfide, (E) - 2 - butenyl 3 - methylbutyl disulfide, and bis (3 - methylbutyl) disulfide. The Western Spotted Skunks does not have the thiol esters associated with the musk as seen in Mephitis and Conepatus. While the spray is as pungent as in the other skunks it does not have the “ staying power ” without the thiol esters.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. These skunks are found along streams in riparian thickets composed of willows and cottonwoods or alder, salmonberry, tan oak and other hardwoods. They also occur in all stages of dry forests and pine-oak forests, and use canyons, cliffs, rock piles, lava fields, and dry valleys. They prefer areas where they can find cover protection from predators. These skunks will use tunnels and holes of other animals such as mountain beavers in Oregon and wood rats and ground squirrels in other parts of their range. Western Spotted Skunks have been found in older buildings in rural settings, but also have been taken in urban houses and apartments. They also will den around other man-made structures such as dams as long as protective cover is available.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Western Spotted Skunks eat a variety of food items. They are omnivores, but tend to have a mostly carnivorous diet. They eat small mammals, birds, and lizards. They consume a number of insects including grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillars, and ants. They also will eat fruits and vegetable matter to supplement their diets.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. They are generally nocturnal. They prefer to move under the cover of darkness, but have been observed during daylight hours. When nervous they will walk with heavy deliberate steps. Spotted skunks are quite agile and are capable of climbing. Like other spotted skunks, they can perform handstands and walk on only their front paws. When faced with a potential predator, the skunk rushes forward, then stands on its forepaws with its hind end elevated off the ground. It can spray in this position, but usually drops to all fours and faces the predator with both ends before spraying.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Western Spotted Skunks usually den alone, but they use multiple dens. Dens may be used by multiple individuals, but not necessarily at the same time. The skunks usually den in areas that provide protective cover, such as under shrubs or prickly pear cactus. During the late summer and early fall months males tend to be captured more than females. This could be due to increased movement of males during the breeding season, which corresponds to these months. Young animals when playing will let out a loud, ear piercing, high pitched screech when excited. Young males of the same litter will wrestle more aggressively than females. They tend to leave the maternal den sooner in order to look for mates. Western Spotted Skunks have a patchy distribution throughout their range and very little study has been done of home range, density, and dispersal. However, in an island population these skunks have a larger home range (about twice the size) in the drier months than during the wet months.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	breeding	Breeding. These skunks breed in September and October and undergo a period of delayed implantation. Although a second period of breeding is possible, this breeding season makes them reproductively isolated from Eastern Spotted Skunks. Western Spotted Skunks give birth in April or May to a litter of 2 - 6 young. Gestation lasts for about 210 - 230 days. Young are born blind and naked. Their eyes open after about 28 days and they are weaned after two months. Young begin to disperse after about three months.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5DFF07FDBCF62DD395.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation.. Not listed in CITES. Classified as Least Concern in The IUCN Red List. The island spotted skunk in California is listed as a subspecies of special concern. Several larger carnivores such as domestic dogs, coyotes, foxes, feral cats, bobcats, and birds of prey such as owls are known to prey on spotted skunks. Various intestinal parasites including tapeworms, roundworms, and coccidia have been found in spotted skunks. They also are susceptible to fleas and ticks. Humans have been known to trap and shoot spotted skunks for fur and they have been poisoned as non target animals during predator control efforts. In the USA, rabies has been reported, butit is rare. Western Spotted Skunks have been reported to survive over ten years in captivity.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	materials_examined	Tlalpan, Distrito Federal, Mexico.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	discussion	This skunk has been classified as a subspecies of Spilogale putorius off and on throughout: its taxonomic :: history. Recent chromosomal data have helped to elevate it back to species status. There are five subspecies recognized.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	synonymic_list	Subspecies and Distribution. S. a. angustifrons Howell, 1902 — C Mexico (Distrito Federal & C Michoacan). S. a. celeris Hall, 1938 — highlands of Nicaragua S towards C Costa Rica. S. a. elata Howell, 1906 — highlands of SE Mexico (Chiapas), Guatemala, El Salvador, and Hounduras. S. a. tropicalis Howell, 1902 — S Mexico (E Puebla, C Morelos, & C Guerrero, and SE towards Oaxaca and along the Pacific Coast) to E El Salvador. S. a. yucatanensis Burt, 1938 — Mexico (occurs throughout the Yucatan Peninsula), Belize and N Guatemala.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	description	Descriptive notes. Very few specimens are available for measurements. Head-body 21 - 25 cm (males) and 20 - 24 cm (females), tail 10.1 - 14.5 cm; weight 240 - 533 g. The color pattern in this speciesis very similar to other species of spotted skunks. They have a white spot between the eyes and a series of six vertical white stripes along the back and sides. The top set of white stripes runs along the middle of the back towards the rear of the animal where they branch off and become horizontal on the hips. The next pair runs from the ears parallel to the top stripes. The third set runs from the forelegs along the side and sometimes joins the horizontal stripes on the hips. The tip (one third of the tail) is white. There is considerable variation in this color pattern. Southern Spotted Skunks have five toes on each foot and long claws. The skull is small and narrow with a highly arched cranium. The rostrum is also narrow. The dental formula for this skunk is: 1 3 / 3, C 1 / 1, P 3 / 3, M 1 / 2 = 34. This species, like other skunks, is endowed with well- developed scent glands, which can expel a noxious fluid to repel potential predators.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	biology_ecology	Habitat. These skunks are found in rocky hills with brush and sparse trees, but they also can be found in pine-oak forests at high elevations. They can occur in a variety of habitats such as rainforests, dry thickets, pine forests, and grasslands. They are commonly found in agricultural fields as well. Southern Spotted Skunks have been found from sea level to about 2800 m. They make dens under logs or rocks, in hollow trees, and between the roots of trees and shrubs. They also use dens abandoned by armadillos and other mammals.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	food_feeding	Food and Feeding. Like other spotted skunks, Southern Spotted Skunks feed mainly on insects and small mammals. They also will consume amphibians and wild fruit. 50 % of their diet consists of invertebrates and the remainder consists of vertebrates and vegetation (including fruits).	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	activity	Activity patterns. These animals presumably are nocturnal. Like the other skunks they are equipped with anal scent glands that can be used in defense. Southern Spotted Skunks probably have very similar activity patterns to Eastern and Western Spotted Skunks.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	biology_ecology	Movements, Home range and Social organization. Home ranges for this species have been estimated at about 64 hectares. In areas where they are common they have been reported in densities of 5 - 8 individuals per square kilometer.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	breeding	Breeding. The breeding season in this species has not been studied. Because Eastern and Western Spotted Skunks have different periods of delayed implantation, the breeding season in this species would be an interesting study.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
03CC87EC912FFB5CFA18F8C1F89ED795.taxon	conservation	Status and Conservation. Notlisted in CITES. Classified as Least Concern in The [UCN Red List. This species is just recently being recognized by taxonomists and is therefore not likely to have been considered for special conservation status. However, it is reported that where they do occur they are common. This species has been reported with antibodies to rabies, parvovirus, and toxoplasma.	en	Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (2009): Mephitidae. In: Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions: 532-562, ISBN: 978-84-96553-49-1, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5684751
