Why is the hooded skunk called a hooded skunk?

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Striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) — skunk Striped skunk (*Mephitis mephitis*).

The hooded skunk (Mephitis macroura) is named for the distinctive physical feature created by its long hairs at the back of its neck, which form a "hood" appearance.1

While the hooded skunk shares a white bar between the eyes with the common striped skunk, it is distinguished by its unique coat. In many individuals, the white areas on the back are interspersed with black fur, resulting in a gray appearance, and clear stripes are not always present.1