Facts about Skunks
- 07
The musky odor from a skunk's anal glands can be detected by humans from up to one mile away, making it one of the most powerful scent warnings in the animal kingdom.
- 06
In winter, skunks enter a state of torpor where their body temperature drops by up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and they can remain inactive in underground dens for several months without eating.
- 05
Newborn skunks are born blind and deaf, remaining dependent on their mother for approximately 8 weeks before their eyes open and they develop functional spray capabilities.
- 04
Skunks' musk glands contain only about one teaspoon of spray fluid, yet it takes approximately 10 days to fully replenish their chemical reserves after emptying them completely.
- 03
Eastern spotted skunks can perform a handstand and spray while inverted, a unique defense behavior not seen in striped skunk species.
- 02
A skunk's black and white coloration serves as a warning signal that evolved over millions of years to advertise their defensive chemical weapon to predators.
- 01
Striped skunks can spray their musky anal secretion up to 15 feet with 90 percent accuracy when threatened.