MUSTELIDE 573 
he destroys more beetles, grasshoppers, and the Tike than all ow: 
other mammals together, and in addition to these he devours vast 
numbers of mice. He does not evinee that dread of man that is se 
manifest in the great majovity of our mammals, and when met during 
any of his cireumambulations rarely thinks of running away. He 
is slow in movement and deliberate in action, and does not often 
huvry himself in whatever he does. His ordinary gait is a measured 
walk, but when pressed for time he breaks into a low shutting 
eullop. It is hard to intimidate a skunk, but when onee really 
frightened he manages to get over the ground at a very fair pace. 
Pia. 268. —The Common Skunk (Mephitis meprition, 
Skunks remain active throughout the greater part of the year in 
this region, and hibernate only during the severest portion of the 
winter. ‘They differ from most of our hibernating mammals in that 
the inactive period is apparently dependent solely on the tempera- 
ture, while the mere amount of snow has no intluence whatever 
upen their movements. Skunks, particularly when young, make 
very pretty pets, being attractive in) appearance, gentle in 
disposition, interesting in manners, and cleanly in halits—rare 
qualities indeed! They are playful, sometimes mischievous, and 
manifest considerable affection for these who have the care of them. 
Their tlesh is white, tender, and sweet, and is delicious eating. 
Skunks have large families, from six to ten young being commonly 
