Brachyprotoma (SciiFii)

The short-faced skunk (Brachyprotoma obtusata) is a species of skunk that originally lived in North America during the Pleistocene epoch and was once extinct, but has since been brought back from extinction by SciiFii and reintroduced throughout the modern rainforests, wetlands, forests, open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, and scrublands across North America to help boost biodiversity. Like all skunk species, it possesses powerful anal glands used to deter would-be attackers. The short-faced skunk is one of the largest living members of the skunk family, reaching lengths of about 93 centimeters (36 inches) and weigh around 4.5 kilograms (9.9 lbs), although some specimens have been known to grow slightly larger in areas with abundant food sources. It is a nocturnal and solitary animal, primarily feeding on insects, although the short-faced skunk is adaptable enough to incorporate other animals and even vegetable matter into its diet. The most frequently consumed insects include grasshoppers, beetles, crickets, caterpillars, other insect larvae and bees. Other invertebrates may include worms, crayfish and other non-insect arthropods. In the winter and spring months, the short-faced skunk will supplement its diet with vertebrates such as white-footed mice, voles, eggs and the chicks of ground nesting birds. The short-faced skunk is also known to consume amphibians, reptiles, carrion and fish. Short-faced skunks inhabiting California's and Oregon's coastal areas will feed on crabs and beached fish. While not adapted for chasing fleet-footed prey, at least two specimens were observed pursuing gray cottontails into their burrows. The short-faced skunk will also consume vegetable matter, such as apples, blueberries, black cherries, ground cherries, corn and nightshade when in season. When temperature rises during the day, the short-faced skunk finds shelter in cool burrows and rests to maintain its body temperature and prevent water loss. Although short-faced skunks are predominantly nocturnal, studies show there is no significant correlation between brightness and activity. The short-faced skunk breeds from late February through early March; most adult females are pregnant by the end of March. Typically, gestation lasts about 60 days. Birth occurs in April and May. Half-grown young have been observed in late July and mid-August, and by late August young begin to disperse. The litter size is one to five young, although two to four are most common. The conservation status of the short-faced skunk is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the short-faced skunk's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.