General Distribution
Western spotted skunk is believed to be widespread throughout California (Stephenson and Calcarone
1999), but the present distribution and abundance of this species on National Forest System lands is
unknown (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999). Systematics
Hall (1981) considered the western form of spotted skunk to be one of 15 subspecies of Spilogale
putorius. However, based on genetic and morphological differences between the western and eastern
forms, as well as reproductive isolation resulting from differences in the breeding period, western
spotted skunk is presently accepted as a distinct species (Verts and others 2001). Seven subspecies of
western spotted skunk are recognized (Verts and others 2001). The distribution of S. g. phenax extends
through much of California, including National Forest System lands in the southern portion of the state. Habitat Requirements
In southern California, western spotted skunk occurs at elevations of sea level–4,500 feet (1,372 meters)
(Grinnell and others 1937). Historically, this species was known to occur in rocky canyons on the
coastal side of the San Gabriel Mountains and probably occurred in desert slope canyons as well
(Stephenson and Calcarone 1999). In other portions of its range, western spotted skunk is commonly
found near streams, in canyons, on rocky cliffs, in arid valleys, and in a variety of forest and woodland
habitats (Verts and others 2001). It has also been reported on ocean beaches and often inhabits old
buildings and other artificial structures (Verts and others 2001).
The western spotted skunk uses underground burrows, cavities in rocks or trees, and crevices in artificial
structures for protection, resting, and rearing of young (Verts and others 2001). Reproduction
Both adult and young-of-the-year (4–5 months of age) western spotted skunks generally breed in
September, and most young are born in late April–May (Davis and Schmidly 1994, Mead 1968). In
Texas, most individuals have bred by the first week of October (Davis and Schmidly 1994). The
average litter size is 3.8 young (range 2-5) (Mead 1968). Daily/Seasonal Activity
Western spotted skunks are strictly nocturnal and are considered highly secretive. They do not
hibernate, but exhibit reduced activity levels during periods of cold weather (Verts and others 2001).
Western spotted skunk has been reported to live up to 9 years 10 months in captivity (Verts and others
2001). Diet and Foraging
Western spotted skunks are omnivorous and feed primarily on insects and small mammals (Verts and
others 2001). They also eat reptiles, small birds, eggs, fruits, grains, and carrion (Zeiner and others
1990). Territoriality/Home Range
Western spotted skunks are probably not territorial but have been observed to make high-pitch
vocalizations and nip at other spotted skunks or striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) that approach too
closely (Verts and others 2001). The home range of spotted skunks has been estimated to be 160 acres
(64 hectares) or less; males may wander farther. Population densities average up to 13 or more per
square mile (259 hectares) (Burt and Grossenheider 1964). Predator-Prey Relations
Eagles, great horned owl, coyotes and bobcats are known to prey on spotted skunks (Choate and others
1973, Verts and others 2001). Literature Cited
Burt, W.H.; Grossenheider, R.P. 1964. A field guide to the mammals. The Peterson field guide
series. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.
Choate, J.R.; Fleharty, E.D.; Little, R.J. 1973. Status of the spotted skunk (Spilogale putorius) in
Kansas. Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science 76: 226–233.
Davis, W.B.; Schmidly, D.J. 1994. The mammals of Texas. Austin, TX: Texas Parks and Wildlife Press.
Grinnell, J.; Dixon, J.S.; Lindsdale, J.M. 1937. Furbearing animals of California: Their natural history,
systematic status, and relations to man. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.
Hall, E.R. 1981. The mammals of North America. 2d ed. New York: John Wiley and Sons.
Mead, R.A. 1968. Reproduction in western forms of the spotted skunk (genus Spilogale). Journal of
Mammalogy 49: 373–390.
NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life. 2002. Version 1.6. Arlington, Virginia, USA:
NatureServe. [Online]. Available: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer/.
Stephenson, J.R.; Calcarone, G.M. 1999. Southern California mountains and foothills assessment:
Habitat and species conservation issues. General Technical Report GTR-PSW-172. Albany, CA: Pacific
Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Verts, B.J.; Carraway, L.N.; Kinlaw, A. 2001. Spilogale gracilis. Mammalian Species 674: 1–
10. Published by the American Society of Mammalogists.
Zeiner, D.C.; Laudenslayer, W.F., Jr.; Meyer, K.E.; White, M., eds. 1990. California's wildlife. Volume
III: Mammals. California statewide wildlife habitat relationships system. Sacramento, CA: California
Department of Fish and Game.
Information gathered from California DFG - California Interagency Wildlife Task Group
