Almost everytime I travel south of Palawan Island, I could detect the presence of the Palawan skunk (earlier literature referred to it as Suillotaxis marchei, more recently its scientific name is Mydaus marchei) because of its characteristic pungent smell. It emits a very powerful odor that pervades even the enclosed, air conditioned vans that ply the route. This has not changed for the past decade and I know this animal has successfully survived despite intrusions to its habitat. Most people would evade the animal, as it is known to emit so foul an odor that stays for days even with vigorous bathing. Somebody told me it killed an unfortunate horse that happened to tread its way.

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Morphological Characteristics

The Palawan skunk, stink badger or “pantot” in the local dialect looks like a small pig, with the head rather long and pointed snout. Its eyes and ears are small. The dorsal portion of its body is uniformly brown, with the hair becoming gray toward the base. There is a triangular spot of silvery white on head and neck which could vary in size.

Biology and Habitat

The Palawan skunk moves very slowly, most of the time putting its head down as if feeling its way. While it may be slow, its behavior towards intruders compensate. When threatened or excited, it would approach its enemy rearward and eject a foul-smelling liquid from its anus that could stay for days on the intruder’s skin.The local natives remedy the situation by subjecting the victim to a smoky treatment using dried plant leaves.

The skunk lives in the countryside usually in secondary forests. They may also be encountered within the immediate vicinities of rivers and creeks, usually among hiding among mixed vegetation. It feeds mainly on insects.

Distribution

These animals are widespread in various parts of mainland Palawan and in the island of Busuanga, north of mainland Palawan. In my experience, they are most notable in the municipality of Aborlan, about 60 kilometers from the City of Puerto Princesa even in human-inhabited areas.

Status

Although easily discerned through its smell, the Palawan skunk is widespread, endemic to the localities mentioned and rarely hunted. It can be of help to farmers as they get rid of damaging pests such that they are usually treated with respect.

References

Esselstyn, J. A., Widmann, P. and L. R. Heaney, 2004. The mammals of Palawan Island, Philippines. Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington, 117(3):271-302.

Rabor, D. S, 1986. Guide to Philippine Flora and Fauna: Birds and Mammals. Natural Resource Management Center, Ministry of Natural Resources and University of the Philippines.