Stripes vary in length and width among individuals. The tail is bushy and black, usually tipped white. Sexes are colored and marked alike. A skunk's pelt is composed of soft, wavy underfur overlain with long, coarse guard hairs. Skunks molt yearly, beginning in April and ending some time in September.
Skunks make a variety of sounds, including hisses, growls, squeals, soft cooings and churrings.
By nature, skunks are placid and sluggish. They can swim, but are poor climbers. These glands have nozzle-like ducts, which protrude through the anus. Skunks discharge their scent, or musk, through these nozzles, powering the stream with a strong hip muscle contraction. Musk is an oily liquid, creamy or yellowish in color.