Photo courtesy of
BioInfo Animal Pictures Archive
The striped skunk is a medium size skunk. The white stripe on the top of its head forks into two separate stripes that run along its back.When startled, the striped skunk will make a peculiar purring sound and may even growl. Before emitting its sulphuric spray (mercaptan) in self-defense, it will warn its targe by raising its tail, standing on its hind legs and stomping its front feet. The mercaptan not only carries a terrible odor but, if it hits the eyes, will blind the skunk's target for up to two days.
Striped skunks are family oriented. Several will often share a den. They prefer to live under rocky outcrops, but will sometimes "borrow" armadillo and fox dens. Skunk families not only sleep together, but often hunt together. They walk in single file on hunting expeditions.
Striped skunks are almost exclusively nocturnal. Their varied diet which includes vegetation, reptiles, insects, rodents, snails, and reptiles.
Davis, William. The Mammals of Texas. Austin, Texas: Texas Parks and Wildlife Information-Education Division. 1974.Devoe, Alan. "The King of Self Defense." Reader's Digest Books. Marvels and Mysteries of Our Animal World. Pleasantville, New York: Coronet Books. 1964.
Skunk and Opossum Web Site
Striped Skunk - Mammals of Texas On-Line
Striped Skunk - Onalaska Science Web
Striped Skunk - The Colorado Guide
BioInfo Animal Pictures - Beautiful Photos of Striped Skunks
Terry Portillo © 1999