Family MUSTELIDAE 



109 



mal from Golconda in southeastern Illinois. Because this skunk 

 is in Iowa and Missouri, it may eventually be found in Illinois, 

 perhaps in counties bordering the Mississippi River. 



Diagnostic features of the spotted skunk are outlined in the 

 key to the Carnivora. 



TAXIDEA TAXUS (Schreber) 

 Badger 



Description. — The badger is a short-legged, squat animal 

 weighing 20 to 35 pounds, fig. 68. It is mostly yellowish gray 

 in color and has a white stripe extending from the nose over 

 the forehead and disappearing on the back, white cheeks, with 

 a black spot on each, yellowish under parts and tail, and black 

 feet. Its ears are small, its tail is short and bushy, and its large 

 forefeet are provided with long claws. Its sturdy body and 

 powerful forelegs make the badger an effective digger. 



Length measurements: head and body about 24i/^ inches 

 (620-640 mm.), tail, from base to tip of bone, 4-6 inches (100- 

 150 mm.), over-all 28-31 inches (720-790 mm.), hind foot 3i^-5 

 inches (90-130 mm.), ear from notch about 2 inches (50 mm.). 



Fig. 68.— Badger. 



