The term skunk (Mephitis mephitis) comes from the Latin meaning "noxious smell"
and is the perfect name for this black and white member of the weasel family. All
ten species of skunk are omnivores and their fur color ranges from black to
light brown. A skunk can weigh as little as one pound or as much as 17 pounds.
Skunks are best
known for the unpleasant odor they release when they feel under attack. The
smell comes from two scent glands positioned on either side of the skunk's
anus. They are activated when the skunk is defensive. The smell is so strong (a
combination of two sulfur related gases) potential predators such as bears
leave this small mammal alone.
Besides the
pervasive smell, other distinct characteristics of the skunk are a long snout
and strong claws, essential for hunting for prey and digging in the ground. They
use their hand dug dens for sleeping and giving birth. Most of the time, skunks
prefer their own company but will huddle together in their dug outs for warmth.
Some people choose
to domesticate skunks and keep them as pets. When this happens, the scent
glands are removed.