How do spotted skunks defend themselves from predators?

Spotted skunks defend themselves from predators through a combination of warning behaviors and the use of a potent chemical spray. Before resorting to their spray, spotted skunks perform a distinct handstand display to warn potential threats, which serves as a visual signal to encourage the predator to retreat.12

If the threat persists, the skunk utilizes specialized anal scent glands to discharge a noxious, foul-smelling liquid. This spray contains sulfur compounds, specifically thiols and thioacetates, which are highly offensive to most animals. The skunk can aim this spray with great precision using coordinated muscle control, either as a direct stream at a predator's face or as an atomized cloud if the predator is not clearly visible. Because the production of this deterrent liquid is metabolically costly and requires time to replenish, these warning behaviors are essential for conserving the skunk's limited supply of spray.12