Plains Spotted Skunk Distribution and Relative Abundance Assessment

The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is participating in fieldwork to better assess the regional population and distribution of the Plains spotted skunk, a species in decline throughout the Midwest. The population of skunks being assessed inhabit the forested Ozark mountain region spanning southern Missouri. This project is important because the reasons for decline of the Plains spotted skunk in this part of the country are unclear. As such, previous fieldwork includes biologic sampling to aid in health and disease assessment. The data and conclusions drawn from this project will aid in providing important information and techniques to help support and guide Plains spotted skunk conservation efforts across the species’ range.