Skunk Defends Deer Carcass Montana 2012
A Striped Skunk defends a deer carcass near Red Lodge, Montana. Posturing and performing a pre-spray “dance”, the skunk defended its meal and did not spray but rather continued to feed in my presence. I assume that it refrained from spraying to avoid tainting the carcass. I maintained a respectful distance from this animal and took just a few photographs before departing. In the Rocky Mountains, a windfall of nutrition in the form of carrion could be the difference between life and death.
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Taxonomic revision of skunks
A STRIPED SKUNK is classified as a carnivore and recent skunk DNA studies have demonstrated that skunks belong in a family of their own (Mephitidae). Previously, skunks were classified as members of the weasel family (Mustelidae) along with wolverines, badgers, fishers, martens, otters, mink, and weasels. But as mentioned, they are now considered a separate family based on their unique DNA. Mephitis is from Latin and means “noxious exhalation”.
They eat insects, just about any small invertebrates, mice, eggs, fish, carrion and they will munch on berries and plants as well. Skunks are classified as carnivores based on the anatomy of their skull and dentition but they are clearly omnivorous creatures.