The bold black and white color pattern of the skunk's fur makes it highly conspicous and acts as a warning to any would be predators. All species of skunk have long fur and long bushy or plumed black and white tails. The legs are short, the hind feet plantigrade and the soles of the feet are nearly naked and have strong curved claws. It grows up to about 30 inches long including a tail which is up to about 8 inches long. His lifespan is about 7 years.
Many skunks live in underground dens that they line with dry leaves.
Skunks eat caterpillers and other insects such as beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers. They also eat mice, rats, and other small rodents. Sometimes they eat eggs, fruit, grain and the rotting flesh of dead animals. Skunks have few natural enemies, though bobcats and the great horned owl have been known to attack them. The skunk is a consumer.