TEMPERATURE REGULATION AND BASAL METABOLIC-RATE IN THE SPOTTED SKUNK, SPILOGALE-PUTORIUS

1. 1. Metabolic rate, body temperature, and evaporative water loss of six spotted skunks were measured at air temperatures between 8 and 40°C. 2. 2. The mean metabolic rate of spotted skunks at thermoneutral air temperatures was 30.5% below that predicted by body mass. 3. 3. Thermal conductance, body temperature, and rates of evaporative water loss were like those of similar sized mammals. 4. 4. The non-elongate body form, omnivorous diet, and low level of activity of spotted skunks distinguish them from other mustelids and may account for their lower-than-expected basal metabolism. © 1990.