Main Characteristics

Southern Spotted Skunks have a body length between 12 and 34 cms (4.7 - 13.4 inches), a tail length between 9 and 23 cms (3.5 - 9 inches) and they weigh between 0.5 and 1 kg (1.1 - 2.2 lbs). They are black and white in colour and they are similar in appearance to the western spotted skunk.

Like all skunks, the Southern 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

Southern Spotted Skunks can be found in central America.

Diet

Southern Spotted Skunks feed on small mammals, birds, lizards, invertebrates, eggs and fruit.

Breeding

The reproductive behaviour is thought to be similar to that of the western spotted skunk.

Predators

There are no documented predators of the Southern Spotted Skunk.

Subspecies

Subspecies of the Southern Spotted Skunk include:

Spilogale angustifrons angustifrons
Spilogale angustifrons celeris
Spilogale angustifrons elata
Spilogale angustifrons tropicalis
Spilogale angustifrons yucatanensis

Interesting Facts

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