Striped skunk

Bold black-and-white markings and an unbothered attitude make the striped skunk hard to mistake for anything else on the prairie. Black with a bold white stripe, the striped skunk is a nocturnal wanderer that forages in fields and along woodlots for grubs, insects, and berries. Its warning colours advertise the defence that makes most animals leave it alone.

Striped skunks are nocturnal omnivores that eat insects, grubs, eggs, small rodents, and berries. Their bold stripes are a warning, and when threatened they stamp, raise their tails, and, only as a last resort, spray. They spend their days in dens and come out at dusk, which is why daylight sightings like this one are a treat. Before spraying, a skunk will stamp its feet, raise its tail, and give a clear warning, so a calm and respectful distance is the best approach for photographers.

This is a favourite frame of a striped skunk, curled in golden grass in early spring light.

Striped skunk with black and white fur hunched in golden dry grass

Photos

  • Striped skunk with black and white fur hunched in golden dry grass
  • Striped skunk walking through long green grass at dusk, Manitoba
  • Striped skunk walking through marsh grass and patchy snow, Manitoba
  • Striped skunk walking through marsh grass and patchy snow, Manitoba

Striped skunk Manitoba sightings

Where and when you can find the striped skunk in Manitoba depends on the season and the habitat. You can see more animals in the Manitoba wildlife section.

Back to Manitoba wildlife photography, or see the portfolio.

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