Wildlife & Fisheries Asking For Help With Skunk Sightings

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is asking for assistance from the public. The Eastern Spotted skunk has not been seen for at least 30 years, and they are seeking information on confirmed sightings.

According to a press release from the department: Anyone who sees the skunk is asked to report the sighting to LDWF. The sightings can be from roadkill, game cameras or inadvertent catch from fur trapping.

This particular skunk does not have the same markings as the common striped skunk. LDWF says 'The Eastern Striped skunk has an upside-down triangle on its forehead and narrow white stripe beneath its eyes. Two stripes run diagonally across the hip with a few white spots on its rear end. Its tail is bushy, white underneath and at the tip'.

Reported sightings can be made to Jennifer Hogue-Manuel at 337-735-8674, or email jhogue-manuel@wlf.la.gov. You can also upload sightings to the Eastern Spotted Skunk Project at https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/eastern-spotted-skunk .