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How do hog-nosed skunk markings vary between northern and southern parts of their range?
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skunk
Striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis).
The markings of hog-nosed skunks (genus Conepatus) vary significantly depending on their geographic location:
- Northern range: In the northern parts of their range, these skunks typically feature a single, solid white stripe that begins at the top of the head and extends down the back to cover the tail.1
- Central and South America: In these regions, the markings shift to the typical V-shaped pattern seen in many other skunk species.1
Regardless of their range, hog-nosed skunks are distinguished by their lack of markings between the eyes.1