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Do some skunks not have stripes?
Contrary to what many people believe, not all skunks have stripes. In fact, there are spotted skunks that have black-and-white coats. They aren’t exactly spots, but since there are a lot of black-and-white areas on the animal, that’s why it is called the spotted skunk.
Are baby skunks born with stripes?
Although the most common fur color is black and white, some skunks are brown or grey and a few are cream-colored. All skunks are striped, even from birth. They may have a single thick stripe across the back and tail, two thinner stripes, or a series of white spots and broken stripes (in the case of the spotted skunk).
Do all skunks have stripes?
Skunks are small, furry animals with black and white stripes. Some skunks are striped, and some are spotted or have swirl patterns on their fur. No matter the pattern, the black-and-white coloring is a warning sign to anyone who may harm this small creature.
Can skunks not have a white stripe?
The pattern can vary, with some individuals being almost completely black and others mostly white. Striped skunks coexist with humans in suburban areas and can be spotted ambling along roadsides at night.
What do skunk stripes mean?
Yet its fur is striped just like a skunk’s, leading the researchers to conclude that the stripes are a good predator deterrent—as is, of course, the ability to spray. Like skunks, most other mamallian predators use anal gland secretions, but generally in smaller doses, to mark territory, Stankowich noted.
Can baby skunks survive their own?
Orphaned skunks can also be euthanized if they have been massively malnourished and cannot live on their own without a caregiver.
How long do skunks stay in one place?
The young remain in the den for about eight weeks. The juvenile skunks are weaned by the time they emerge from the den and are about eight inches long. They can make their scent at birth, and by four months of age, can spray with accuracy.
Will a skunk spray if it sees you?
Skunks only spray if they feel threatened. If you see one, stay away from it, and it will leave you alone.