Skunk Spray
Skunks are best known for their pungent spray. This is their most effective defensive mechanism against predators, and when attacked or frightened, an adult skunk can spray up to 25 feet. A high concentration of skunk spray can cause nausea, vomiting and eye irritation. At lower concentrations, it merely smells really foul. Skunks do not spray without warning. They will stomp their feet, raise their tail and hiss or squeal. If the predator does not heed this warning, they will have to deal with the foul-smelling consequences.Appearance
The most common skunk found in Canada is the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis). It is easily recognizable by its distinctive black and white striped markings and can weigh up to 12 pounds. The natural lifespan of a skunk in the wild is relatively short and they usually only live for two to four years. Skunks have very poor eyesight but they make up for this with their excellent sense of smell and hearing. [caption id="attachment_16302" align="aligncenter" width="630"]![](/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/wild-side-beach-skunkIMG_7657-copy-copy.jpg)