Meet the elusive western spotted skunk—a pint-sized predator with big survival skills! This lesser-known cousin of the striped skunk is rarely seen but plays a fascinating role in the old-growth forest ecosystem. From their infamous “chemical warfare” to their surprising ability to compete with apex predators like cougars, these little stinkers are full of surprises.
Join us for a discussion with wildlife researcher Marie Tosa of Oregon State University. Discover the skunk’s mysterious habits, their importance to forest health, and the urgent conservation efforts needed to protect them as climate change reshapes their habitat.
Learn what makes these critters so special and why we need to ensure their survival.
Citations
Spilogale Gracilis in Upland Forests of Western Washington and Oregon
Encounter Competition between a Cougar, Puma concolor, and a Western Spotted Skunk, Spilogale gracilis
(the cougar video)
Western spotted skunk spatial ecology in the temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest
Barred Owl predation of western spotted skunks
Phylogenomic systematics of the spotted skunks
Take Action
Webcast: How To Save The Northwest Forest Plan
Send a letter to Congress asking them to oppose weakening the NWFP and demand real protections for wildlife, climate, and old-growth forests.
