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Striped Skunk
We have a pair of striped skunk sisters here at Paignton Zoo. You can find the pint-sized pair in their exhibit next to the Education Centre.
Class:
Mammals
Order:
Carnivora
Family:
Mephitidae
About the striped skunk
Striped skunks are native to North America and are commonly found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. They are mostly nocturnal and solitary animals, known for their distinctive black-and-white striped fur and their ability to spray a foul-smelling liquid from glands near their tail. Despite their reputation, skunks are generally non-aggressive and will give warning signs like stamping their feet or raising their tail before spraying.
Skunks are important for pest control, as they eat many insects and rodents. They are omnivores, feeding on a varied diet that also includes fruits and plants.
Conservation
Striped skunks are currently not considered threatened and are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, they face risks from habitat loss, road traffic, and human-wildlife conflict.
Public education and safe wildlife corridors can help reduce these threats and support healthy skunk populations.