The zorilla, also known as the striped polecat, is a small carnivorous mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. These animals typically measure between 30 to 38 centimeters in length, excluding their tail, which can add another 20 to 30 centimeters. Zorillas are easily recognized by their striking black fur adorned with distinctive white stripes running down their back and white patches on their face. They inhabit a wide range of environments across Africa, including savannas, grasslands, and forest edges.
The Zorilla’s Defensive Spray
Zorillas are known for their potent defensive spray, which they deploy when threatened. Before releasing their spray, a zorilla often exhibits several warning behaviors to deter potential attackers. These include hissing, growling, stomping their feet, and arching their back while raising their bushy tail.
If these warnings are ignored, the zorilla will turn its rear toward the threat and spray a foul-smelling liquid from its anal glands. Some accounts even describe them performing a “handstand” before spraying. This noxious fluid can be accurately directed at a target up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) away.
Characteristics of the Spray
The zorilla’s spray is a foul-smelling, oily liquid. Secreted from specialized anal glands, this musk contains sulfur-containing compounds known as thiols, which are responsible for its intense and lingering odor. The smell is strong and can be detected from over half a mile away, making the zorilla one of the smelliest animals.
Upon contact, the spray can cause severe effects on a predator. It may lead to temporary blindness and intense irritation to the eyes and mucous membranes. The spray also produces a burning sensation and can induce nausea and disorientation, incapacitating an attacker.
Zorillas and Skunks: Similarities and Differences
Zorillas are often compared to skunks due to their similar black and white coloration and shared defense mechanism of spraying a fluid from anal scent glands when threatened. Both are primarily nocturnal and solitary creatures.
Despite these similarities, zorillas and skunks belong to different biological families; zorillas are part of the weasel family (Mustelidae), while skunks belong to the Mephitidae family. Their geographic distribution differs, with zorillas being native to Africa and skunks primarily found in the Americas.
Behavior before spraying varies. While skunks often give more explicit warnings like foot-stamping and tail-raising, zorillas are more direct in deploying their defense. Although both use thiols in their spray, the specific blends of these compounds can differ, leading to variations in the spray’s characteristics.