Where are a skunk’s scent glands located?

A skunk’s scent glands are located inside the rectum at the base of the tail. While all carnivores possess anal scent glands, these structures are exceptionally well-developed in skunks. Each of the two glands is equipped with a nipple, allowing the animal to utilize highly coordinated muscle control to aim its spray.12

Before resorting to this chemical defense, skunks typically engage in a series of threat behaviours to warn off potential predators. When the spray is deployed, it is composed primarily of sulfur compounds known as thiols and thioacetates, which create a powerful and deterrent odor.1