Raccoon Size vs. Striped Skunk Size

Attribute	Raccoon Size	Striped Skunk Size
Length	2-3 feet	1-2 feet
Weight	10-20 lbs	4-10 lbs
Color	Gray with black markings	Black with white stripes
Tail	Bushy with rings	Fluffy with stripes

Physical Appearance

Raccoons are medium-sized mammals with a distinctive black mask across their eyes and a ringed tail. They typically weigh between 10 to 20 pounds and measure around 2 to 3 feet in length, including their tail. On the other hand, striped skunks are slightly smaller in size, weighing between 4 to 10 pounds and measuring around 2 feet in length. They have a black body with a white stripe running down their back, which helps to differentiate them from other skunk species.

Body Structure

Raccoons have a robust and stocky body with short legs and sharp claws that help them climb trees and forage for food. Their fur is thick and grayish-brown in color, providing insulation during colder months. Striped skunks, on the other hand, have a more elongated body with shorter legs and a bushy tail. Their fur is black with white stripes, which act as a warning signal to predators.

Habitat

Raccoons are highly adaptable animals that can thrive in various habitats, including forests, urban areas, and wetlands. They are known for their ability to raid trash cans and steal food from campsites, making them a common sight in residential neighborhoods. Striped skunks, on the other hand, prefer open grasslands and wooded areas where they can dig burrows for shelter. They are nocturnal animals that are more elusive than raccoons.

Diet

Raccoons are omnivores with a diverse diet that includes fruits, nuts, insects, small mammals, and even garbage. They are opportunistic feeders that will eat whatever is readily available in their environment. Striped skunks, on the other hand, are primarily insectivores, feeding on insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and crickets. They also consume small rodents, birds, eggs, and plant matter.

Behavior

Raccoons are known for their intelligence and dexterity, using their paws to manipulate objects and open containers. They are also excellent climbers and swimmers, allowing them to access food sources that other animals cannot reach. Striped skunks, on the other hand, are known for their defensive behavior of spraying a foul-smelling liquid when threatened. This defense mechanism serves as a deterrent to predators and helps them avoid confrontation.

Reproduction

Raccoons typically mate in late winter or early spring, with females giving birth to a litter of 2 to 5 kits after a gestation period of around 63 days. The kits are born blind and deaf, relying on their mother for warmth and nourishment. Striped skunks have a similar reproductive cycle, mating in late winter and giving birth to a litter of 4 to 7 kits after a gestation period of around 60 days. The kits are weaned at around 2 months of age and become independent shortly after.

Interaction with Humans

Raccoons have adapted well to human presence and are often considered pests due to their habit of rummaging through garbage cans and causing property damage. They can also carry diseases such as rabies and roundworm, posing a risk to pets and humans. Striped skunks, on the other hand, are more reclusive and tend to avoid human contact. However, they can become a nuisance if they take up residence under porches or sheds.