hooded skunk
Definition
Noun: 1. A species of skunk (Mephitis macroura): A mammal native to Mexico and the southernmost regions of the southwestern United States. It is characterized by its long, soft fur and the distinctive "hood" or cape of long white hairs along its back and tail, which it can raise when threatened.
Usage
- The hooded skunk is primarily nocturnal and feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and plants.
- Unlike the more common striped skunk, the hooded skunk has a more southerly range.
Examples
- We spotted a hooded skunk foraging near the canyon at dusk.
- The hooded skunk is easily identified by the luxurious white fur on its back.
Advanced Usage
- In zoological classification, the hooded skunk belongs to the family Mephitidae.
- The term is used specifically to distinguish this species () from other skunks like the striped skunk () or the spotted skunk ( spp.).
Variants and Related Words
- Skunk (n): The general term for mammals in the family Mephitidae, known for their ability to spray a foul-smelling liquid.
- Striped skunk (n): A common North American skunk () with two prominent white stripes.
- Hog-nosed skunk (n): A different genus of skunk () with a pig-like snout.
Synonyms
- Mephitis macroura (n): The scientific (Latin) name for the hooded skunk.
- Cape skunk (n): An alternative common name, referencing the cape-like fur.
Related Phrases
- "Hooded" appearance: Refers to the visual characteristic of having a patch of color or fur that resembles a hood, as seen in this skunk and some birds (e.g., hooded crow, hooded warbler).
Noun
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of Mexico and southernmost parts of southwestern United States
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