Although the skunk generally waddles through life in a peaceful and solitary way, the animal is feared by humans due to the pungent odour it emits when threatened, and has been both demonized and venerated throughout history. Skunk provides the first cultural and natural history of this misfit creature, from their importance in agriculture and the ecosystem to their distinct role in popular culture and myth.

Whether you believe skunks to be friend or foe, Skunk offers new insights and analysis, and has much to say both to specialists and armchair admirers of these beautiful, intriguing, and distinctive animals.