Recently, we welcomed two baby western spotted skunks (Spilogale gracilis) to SWCC after they were rescued from a backyard pool. These little ones were originally in the care of Liberty Wildlife before being transferred to us. Fortunately, they arrived in good condition and are now safely in our care, growing stronger as they prepare for their eventual return to the wild.
When most people think of skunks, they picture the classic striped skunk, the most common species across the United States. Spotted skunks rarely come to mind, but they are absolutely adorable and fascinating creatures!
Spotted skunks are much smaller than striped skunks, and instead of solid stripes, they have a black coat with spots and swirls of white, a pattern unique to each individual skunk. Another key identifier is a white spot on their forehead and another in front of each ear. Spotted skunks are great climbers and can be found all across the state, but primarily live in rocky, mountainous areas. The most fascinating fact of all: All skunks send a warning by lifting their tail, but the spotted skunk takes it to the next level by pulling off a full handstand to really show they mean business!
At SWCC, we care for striped skunks far more often than the other three skunk species found here in Arizona, which makes these spotted skunks particularly special. Let’s take a look at the other 3 skunk species in Arizona.
Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis)
- Most common skunk species in Arizona
- Always has a thin white stripe on the face
- Stripe patterns vary: may be broken or solid, two stripes along the back
- Found almost everywhere in Arizona except the most extreme deserts
- Prefers riparian habitats
- Active year-round
- Common in suburban and urban areas
Hooded Skunk (Mephitis macroura)
- Only found in the southern areas of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
- Closely related to the striped skunk
- Facial marking: thin white stripe on the face
- Long fur on the back of their neck, giving the appearance of a hood
- Prefers riparian habitats
American Hog-nosed Skunk (Conepatus leuconotus)
- Entirely white back and tail
- No white stripe on the forehead
- Elongated, hairless nose used to root through the soil and leaf litter to look for insects, grubs, worms, snails, bulbs, and roots
- Largest skunk species
- Long, bear-like claws adapted for digging
From the common striped skunk to the rare spotted skunk, every rescue at SWCC is a reminder of the wild neighbors we share Arizona with, and the role we can play in protecting them. The two tiny spotted skunks have a lot of growing to do before they’re ready to head back to their wild home, but with your support, they’ll get the care they need to make that journey. Thank you for helping us give Arizona’s wildlife a second chance at life in the wild!
August 2025