Eastern spotted skunk
A species of Spotted skunks Scientific name : Spilogale putorius Genus : Spotted skunks
Eastern spotted skunk, A species of Spotted skunks
Scientific name: Spilogale putorius
Genus: Spotted skunks
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putorius) is a relatively small and narrow carnivore of the Skunks family, found in eastern states of the US and smaller regions of Canada and Mexico.
General Info
Lifespan
3-6 years
Appearance
The eastern spotted skunk is a small, sleek-bodied mammal with soft, dense fur. It displays a distinctive black and white pattern, with four to six broken white stripes running along its darkened back. Its face contains a thin, white stripe extending from its forehead to the tip of its pointed snout. Notable features include a bushy tail and sharp retractable claws. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Eastern spotted skunk is characterized by its active nocturnal lifestyle, often foraging and nesting in seclusion. Specializing in solitary living, this species displays predominant territorial instincts by marking its territory with musky scent secretions. Eastern spotted skunk's behavior represents a remarkable adaptation for survival in its natural habitat, manifesting in its defensive spraying mechanism when threatened.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Carnivores Family
Skunks and stink badgers Genus
Spotted skunks Species
Eastern spotted skunk