Skunk

Conepatus

Behavior

Skunks are nocturnal. They are best-known for their ability to spray a foul-smelling and sticky fluid as a defense against predators; this secretion comes from the anal scent glands. The odor of the fluid is strong enough to ward off bears and other potential attackers. The odor can be difficult to remove from human clothing.

Related Topics:
Nocturnal - Anal scent gland - Bears

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Skunks are solitary animals when not breeding, but may gather together to keep warm in communal dens in the coldest part of their range. During the day they shelter in burrows that they dig with their powerful front claws, or in other man-made or natural hollows as the opportunity arises. Both sexes occupy overlapping home ranges through the greater part of the year; typically 2 to 4 km² for females, up to 20 km² for males.

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