Climbing as an escape behavior in the American hog-nosed skunk, Conepatus leuconotus

Authors

Wesley B. Brashear, Angelo State University, San Angelo, TexasFollow
Robert C. Dowler, Angelo State University, San Angelo, TexasFollow
Gerardo Ceballos, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, D.F., México

Abstract

Climbing behavior is poorly documented in skunk species, with the exception of the genus Spilogale. Herein we describe 2 cases of climbing behavior in the American hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus leuconotus): one in Colima, Mexico, and another in west central Texas, USA. In both cases, a male climbed over 5 m into oak trees when pursued by humans. Climbing as an escape behavior in hog-nosed skunks has not previously been reported.

Recommended Citation

Brashear, Wesley B.; Dowler, Robert C.; and Ceballos, Gerardo (2010) "Climbing as an escape behavior in the American hog-nosed skunk, Conepatus leuconotus," Western North American Naturalist: Vol. 70: No. 2, Article 17.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/wnan/vol70/iss2/17