Striped Skunk
*This page is under renovation and all information may not be up-to-date or complete*
This animal is an Animal Ambassador and lives behind-the-scenes. Animal Ambassadors attend school programs, special events, ZooLive! Stage Shows, guest engagement activities, and outreach events.
Description
Striped skunks..
Range & Habitat
Found In: a variety of habitats and land types throughout North America
Behavior
Skunks..
Diet
Omnivore: as an opportunistic feeder, skunks will eat insects, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish, corn, and fruits.
Conservation
This species is listed as a least concern for extinction, however the pet trade poses a great risk to the wild population.
Fun Facts
- Skunks use their spray as a last resort because once they use all their spray, it can take 10-14 days for their glands to refill, and they cannot spray during that time. They want to make sure they are saving their best defense mechanism for when they really need it.
Virginia Zoo Animals
Animal Ambassadors: Chonk (male)

Scientific Name
Mephitis mephitis
IUCN Conservation Status
Least Concern
Size
Length: 18-32 inches
Weight: 1.5-13 lbs
Life Expectancy
— years