The family Mephitidae includes animals commonly known as skunks. These small to medium-sized mammals are easily recognized by their distinctive black and white fur patterns. Skunks are primarily nocturnal and are found in the Americas, where they inhabit a variety of environments, from forests to grasslands. They are known for their unique defense mechanism: when threatened, skunks can spray a foul-smelling liquid to deter predators. Skunks are omnivorous, feeding on insects, fruits, and small animals. Their diet helps control pest populations, making them beneficial to ecosystems. Despite their reputation, skunks are generally shy and prefer to avoid confrontation, often using their spray only as a last resort.