Skunks Spray Unwanted Suitors This Valentine's Day

Striped skunks in California are rejecting male advances with their signature scent.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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As Valentine's Day approaches, the local skunk population in San Rafael, California is getting into the romantic spirit - but not in the way you might expect. Female striped skunks have been spraying male skunks who make unwanted advances, using their powerful scent as a defense mechanism during mating season.

Why it matters

This behavior highlights the unique adaptations of skunks, which can transform their rear ends into formidable chemical defense systems. It also provides a humorous twist on traditional Valentine's Day celebrations, showing how animals in the wild have their own ways of navigating relationships and courtship.

The details

Striped skunks, known scientifically as Mephitis mephitis, are known for their ability to spray a foul-smelling liquid as a defense against predators. During the mating season from January through March, female skunks have been using this ability to reject the advances of persistent male suitors. "What's happening is the males are pursuing the females, and if the female is not interested, she sprays them," said Melanie Piazza, the director of animal care and hospital operations for WildCare.

  • Striped skunk mating season lasts from January through March.
  • Skunk babies are typically born by May.

The players

Striped Skunk

Also known as Mephitis mephitis, the striped skunk is a curious creature that can transform its rear end into a powerful chemical defense system. They are known for their agility, intelligence, and ability to deter predators with their distinctive spray.

Melanie Piazza

The director of animal care and hospital operations for WildCare, an organization that provides care and rehabilitation for wild animals in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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What they’re saying

“What's happening is the males are pursuing the females, and if the female is not interested, she sprays them.”

— Melanie Piazza, Director of Animal Care and Hospital Operations, WildCare (SFGATE)

The takeaway

This Valentine's Day, skunks in California are reminding us that sometimes the best way to reject an unwanted advance is with a powerful scent. Their unique defense mechanism highlights the fascinating adaptations of these creatures and provides a humorous twist on traditional romantic celebrations.