Main Characteristics

Molina's Hog-Nosed Skunks have a body length between 30 and 49 cms (12 - 19 inches), a tail length between 16 and 41 cms (6 - 16 inches) and they weigh between 2.3 and 4.5 kgs (5 - 10 lbs).

They are black in colour with two white stripes that run from the top of their head down the sides of their body and their long, bushy tail is white.

Like all skunks, the Molina'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

Molina's Hog-Nosed Skunks can be found in the shrub forests, and areas of open vegetation in South America.

Diet

Molina's Hog-Nosed Skunks are omnivores and they feed on insects, small mammals, snakes, fruit and eggs.

Breeding

After a gestation period of approximately 2 months, Molina's Hog-Nosed Skunks give birth to a litter of 2 - 5 young. They are weaned at 8 - 10 weeks and reach sexual maturity at around 10 - 12 months old.

Predators

The main predators of Molina's Hog-Nosed Skunks are humans, snakes, foxes and birds of prey.

Subspecies

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

Conepatus chinga budini
Conepatus chinga chinga
Conepatus chinga gibsoni
Conepatus chinga inca
Conepatus chinga mendosus
Conepatus chinga rex
Conepatus chinga suffocans

Interesting Facts

Molina's Hog-Nosed Skunks are also known as:
West South American Hog-Nosed Skunk
Andes Skunk
Zorrino