Striped Skunk

Mephitis mephitis

Look at the bushy tail on this striped skunk. Did you know these little omnivores can spray their oily liquid up to TEN feet away, and up to six feet with controlled precision? Despite this defense mechanism, they are eaten primarily by Great Horned Owls and other birds of prey. They can birth up to 12 kits in a litter and usually live in dens in a variety of habitats, including backyards.