Pronunciation: [mɛfˈa͡ɪtɪs mˈakɹəjˌuːɹə] (IPA) 
Correct spelling for the English word "Mephitis Macroura" is [mɛfˈa͡ɪtɪs mˈakɹəjˌuːɹə], [mɛfˈaɪtɪs mˈakɹəjˌuːɹə], [m_ɛ_f_ˈaɪ_t_ɪ_s m_ˈa_k_ɹ_ə_j_ˌuː_ɹ_ə] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Mephitis macroura, commonly known as the striped skunk, is a mammal native to North America. It is a medium-sized carnivorous animal that belongs to the family Mephitidae. The name "mephitis" is derived from the Latin word for foul odor, which aptly describes the defensive mechanism for which skunks are well known.
The striped skunk is characterized by its distinct black fur with white stripes extending from its head to the base of the tail. It has a long, dense and bushy tail, which serves as a notable feature for identification. The average length of an adult Mephitis macroura ranges from 40 to 60 centimeters, not including the tail, which can be an additional 20 to 40 centimeters.
Skunks are omnivorous creatures, consuming a variety of food including insects, small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. They have a primarily nocturnal lifestyle and are proficient climbers and diggers. The most prominent attribute of skunks is their unique defense mechanism. When threatened, they can emit a strong and unpleasant odor from their anal glands, capable of deterring most predators.
Due to their distinctive coloration and notorious smell, the striped skunk holds a significant position in North American folklore and symbolism. Despite commonly being perceived as a nuisance due to their ability to raid garbage bins or dig up lawns, Mephitis macroura plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling populations of various insects and small mammals.
The word "Mephitis Macroura" is a combination of two Latin words.
"Mephitis" comes from the Latin word "mephitis", which means "noxious or foul-smelling gas" or "putrid exhalation". This term was used in ancient Roman times to describe foul-smelling vapors, particularly associated with swamps or marshy areas.
"Macroura" comes from the Latin word "macroura", which means "long-tailed". It is derived from the combination of "macrus" meaning "long" and "ura" meaning "tail" in Latin.
When combined, "Mephitis Macroura" refers to a specific species of skunk, commonly known as the "macroura skunk" or "hoary skunk".
