Spotted Skunks Do Handstands Before They Spray
When most people think of skunks, they picture the classic black-and-white striped variety waddling through the backyard. But there's a smaller, flashier cousin that's evolved one of nature's most peculiar warning systems: the spotted skunk performs a full handstand before unleashing its infamous spray.
Weighing less than two pounds—about the size of a squirrel—spotted skunks don't have the luxury of looking intimidating. So when threatened by coyotes, bobcats, or curious humans, they've developed a theatrical defensive display that's equal parts gymnastics and chemical warfare.
The Warning Dance
The performance begins with the skunk facing its threat, stamping its front feet and hissing. If that doesn't work, things get weird. The spotted skunk plants its front paws firmly on the ground, kicks its hind legs straight up into the air, and balances in a perfect handstand. Its tail splays out like a warning flag, and it can actually walk forward on its front paws while completely inverted.
This isn't just showing off. The handstand serves multiple tactical purposes:
- Size intimidation: Standing on two legs makes the tiny skunk appear larger and more threatening
- Better aim: The elevated position allows the skunk to spray higher, potentially hitting predators in the face more effectively
- Clear warning: It's an unmistakable "last chance" signal that even unfamiliar predators can understand
Seven Acrobatic Species
There are actually seven different species of spotted skunks across North and Central America, and they all share this handstand behavior. Unlike their striped cousins with bold, clean lines, spotted skunks sport broken white stripes that create a dappled pattern—hence the "spotted" name.
These smaller skunks are also more agile climbers and hunters than striped skunks, preying on mice, insects, and birds. Their compact size and athletic ability make them well-suited to rocky terrain and forest habitats where their larger relatives struggle.
The Spray Still Happens
Make no mistake: the handstand is a warning, not a bluff. If the threat doesn't back off, the spotted skunk can spray while maintaining its inverted position, launching its sulfur-based musk up to 15 feet with surprising accuracy. The spray causes intense burning in the eyes and nose, and the smell can linger for weeks.
So if you ever encounter a small black-and-white animal doing a handstand in the wild, take the hint and back away slowly. You're witnessing one of nature's most effective "don't mess with me" displays—and you definitely don't want to see the finale.
