Main Characteristics

Pygmy Spotted Skunks are slender, weasel-like animals that have a body length between 11.5 and 34.5 cms (4.5 - 13.5 inches), a tail length between 7 and 12 cms (2.7 - 4.7 inches) and they weigh between 150 and 320 g (5 - 11 oz).

Like all skunks, the Pygmy Spotted 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

Pygmy Spotted Skunks can be found in the wooded and brush areas along the Pacific coast of Mexico.

Diet

Pygmy Spotted Skunks feed on small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects and fruits.

Breeding

Pygmy Spotted Skunks give birth to 3 - 6 young. They are weaned by the time they are 8 weeks old and they reach their full adult at 15 weeks. They are sexually mature by the time they are a year old.

Predators

Predators of Pygmy Spotted Skunks include humans, dogs and coyotes.

Subspecies

Subspecies of the Pygmy Spotted Skunk include:

Spilogale pygmaea australis
Spilogale pygmaea intermedia
Spilogale pygmaea pygmaea

Interesting Facts

Skunks are believed to be one of the principle carriers of rabies in North America.

Similar Animals

Eastern Spotted Skunk
Western Spotted Skunk
Southern Spotted Skunk
Hooded Skunk
Striped Skunk
Humboldt's Hog-Nosed Skunk
Molina's Hog-Nosed Skunk
American Hog-Nosed Skunk