American striped polecat (SciiFii)

The American striped polecat (Neoictonyx virgatus), also known as the American zorilla and, inaccurately, the long-tailed skunk, is a species of polecat that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, and scrublands across North America to help boost biodiversity. Despite its name, appearance, or behavior, the American striped polecat is not closely related to the African striped polecat (Ictonyx striatus), being instead most closely related to the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes), and its color, build, and lifestyle is thought to simulate convergent evolution. Like other polecats, this carnivore is nocturnal. It has several means of avoiding predators, including the ability to emit foul-smelling secretions from its anal glands, playing dead and climbing trees. The animal is mainly black but has four prominent white stripes running from the head, along the back to the tail. The American striped polecat is typically 60 centimeters long including a 20-centimeter tail. The American striped polecat is solitary, tolerating contact with others only to mate. Young are generally born between September and December, with one to five young per litter. The American striped polecat lives for up to 13 years on average, although specimens in captivity generally live longer to almost 20 years. The conservation status of the American striped polecat is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the American striped polecat's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii