A major threat to small mammalian carnivore populations is land use change, but conservation and management are inhibited by limited knowledge about the animals' ecology and natural history. To fill a key knowledge
gap of the western spotted skunk (Spilogale gracilis), researchers used camera traps and models to learn about skunk home ranges and movements. Generally, skunks selected wetter areas, and areas with lower predation risk. Skunks were less likely to occupy areas with heavy snow accumulation. The results of the study will help with future monitoring and may help identify potential threats to the spotted skunk.
A press release and a short, engaging video feature Tosa and her work on western spotted skunk.
Photos of the project at the HJA can be seen at https://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/gallery/small-mammal-carnivore-research
Full paper: Tosa, Marie I., Damon B. Lesmeister, and Taal Levi. 2024. “Western Spotted Skunk Spatial Ecology in the Temperate Rainforests of the Pacific Northwest.” Ecosphere. 15(8): e4981. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.4981