Main Characteristics

Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunks have a body length between 25 and 37 cms (10 - 14.5 inches), a tail length between 30 and 57 cms (12 - 22.5 inches) and they weigh between 1.5 and 3 kgs (3.25 - 6.5 lbs).

They are black or reddish/brown in colour with white stripes that begin on the top of the head and extend down each side of the body to the tail.

Like all skunks, the Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunk has well developed anal glands that they emit musk from if they are threatened. These glands contain a "nipple" that allows the skunk to aim its spray accurately at its attackers.

Habitat

Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunks can be found in a range of habitats in southern South America.

Diet

Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunks mainly feed on insects, but they may also eat small mammals and fruit.

Breeding

Nothing has been documented about reproduction in Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunks but it is assumed that it is similar to other species of hog-nosed skunk.

Predators

Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunks have no natural predators.

Subspecies

Subspecies of the Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunk include:

Conepatus humboldtii castaneus
Conepatus humboldtii humboldtii
Conepatus humboldtii proteus

Interesting Facts

Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunks are also known as:
Patagonian Hog-Nosed Skunk