This compact, tough little badger, while more common in the plains and foothills, now digs its solitary burrow in the lower mountain meadows. As they capture prey by digging them out, they are usually found wherever there are ground squirrel colonies; but will also feed on skunks and marmots. They can dig themselves out of sight in the ground in a few minutes. Like the bears, they fatten up in the fall and go into a period of semi-hibernation from which they may waken and wander about during warmer winter days.
STRIPED SKUNK (Mephitis mephitis varians)
A stout bodied animal about the size of a house-cat, with a small head, large bushy tail, and short legs. Color black with a double stripe of white running the length of the back. Tail black and white. Total length about 28 inches. Weight up to 10 pounds.
This famous little night hunter sleeps most of the day and when awake is commonly seen roaming about human habitations. He feeds largely on small mice, insects, and also likes birds’ eggs. He releases his potent scent only on extreme provocation or surprise and is actually quite a docile, friendly little fellow. If picked up by the tail, he may or may not fumigate the air.
SPOTTED SKUNK (Spilogale tenuis)
A smaller and more slender skunk distinguished by a number of narrow white stripes on the back which tend to break up, often resulting in spots. Rare in the Park and then only east of the Continental Divide.
MARTEN (Martes caurina origenes)
A large weasel-like animal with prominent ears and a bushy tail. Warm brown color except on chest and underparts which are yellowish. Total length about 25 inches.
Red Fox