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Glite Dictionary
Spilogale putorius

Spilogale putorius

9.9
A small skunk with a black and white spotted and striped coat that lives in the United States and Mexico
  • noun
  • /ˌspaɪləˈɡeɪl puˈtɔːriəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Spilogale putorius
  • The Spilogale putorius is known for its unique marbled coat.

Examples

  • The Spilogale putorius has a distinctive marbled coat that helps it blend into its natural habitat.

  • Researchers studied the behavior of Spilogale putorius in grassland environments.

  • Due to habitat loss, populations of Spilogale putorius have declined in many regions.

  • The Spilogale putorius is noted for its unique pattern of white spots and stripes.

  • Have you ever seen a Spilogale putorius in the wild?

  • Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of the Spilogale putorius in North America.

  • Many people are fascinated by the Spilogale putorius because of its striking black and white coloration.

Synonyms

little spotted skunk
vsSpilogale putorius
  • Specialized
7.9

A small skunk with black and white fur in a marbled pattern from the United States and Mexico

is the formal scientific name used instead of the common name
spotted skunk
vsSpilogale putorius
  • US
7.4

A small animal from the United States and Mexico with black and white spotted fur

is the formal scientific name used instead of the common name

Surface Forms

Spilogale putorius singular
Spilogale putorii plural

Morphology

Spilogale + putorius

This is a Latin binomial (taxonomic) name rather than a compositional English phrase; the parts are proper names (one is unknown) and do not yield the common‑language meaning 'a small skunk species' to an average B1 learner. Scientific names require specialist or background knowledge of taxonomy rather than understanding from constituent word meanings, so the sense is not derivable from the parts.

Etymology

Spilogale putorius may come from old words: Spilogale meaning 'spotted weasel' and putorius meaning 'stinking one', because the animal looks like a small, spotted weasel and can spray a strong smell to defend itself. So the name helps you remember it is a 'small skunk species with a marbled black and white coat'.