Mephitidae Author Don E. Wilson Author Russell A. Mittermeier text 2009 2009-01-31 Lynx Edicions Barcelona Handbook of the Mammals of the World – Volume 1 Carnivores 532 562 book chapter 3532 10.5281/zenodo.5684751 5ce30349-be7d-41d9-b9c3-3f089552d894 978-84-96553-49-1 5684751 Family MEPHITIDAE ( SKUNKS ) • Small- to medium-sized mammals with striking black and white color pattern and large scent glands at the base of the tail. • 30-134 cm . • South-east Asia, North, Central, and South America. • Found in almost all habitats within their range except for the most arid deserts and the colder alpine and arctic climates. • 4 genera, 12 species, 60 extant taxa. • 1 species Vulnerable; none Extinct since 1600.