Amazing animals with stripes: facts and photos

Striped polecats

The striped polecat (Ictonyx striatus), also known as the zorilla, is a small but fierce member of the weasel family. With a bold black-and-white striped pattern running from head to tail, it looks similar to a skunk and is listed as least concern by the IUCN.

Striped polecats are native to sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting savannahs, grasslands, and semi-arid regions. Their stripes warn potential predators that they can defend themselves with a potent chemical spray.

Similar to skunks, this defence mechanism involves spraying a foul-smelling secretion when threatened, with a strong odour that can deter predators and rivals.

The polecat's stripes also play a role in camouflage, helping it blend into the dappled shadows of its environment.

Striped marlins

The striped marlin (Kajikia audax) is a highly prized game fish known for its speed and agility. It is found in temperate waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans and is classed as least concern.

Striped marlins have elongated bodies, spear-like bills, and vivid blue and silver colouration with prominent horizontal blue stripes along their sides. These stripes can become more pronounced when the marlin is excited or hunting, a phenomenon known as 'lighting up'.

The stripes help with camouflage in the open ocean, blending with the patterns of light filtering through the water, making it harder for both prey and predators to detect them.

The stripes can also confuse prey during high-speed chases. By rapidly changing the appearance of their stripes, striped marlins can disorient schools of fish, making it easier to single out and catch individuals.

Striped skunks

The striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) is a very recognisable member of the skunk family thanks to its black-and-white coat and potent defence mechanism. Native to North America, they're classed as least concern, reflecting their adaptability and wide distribution.

Striped skunks have black fur with two prominent white stripes running down their back, converging at the head. This serves as a warning to potential predators about the skunk's notorious defence strategy: the ability to spray a foul-smelling secretion from glands located near its tail.

The spray can reach up to 20 feet and contains sulphur-based compounds that can cause irritation and temporary blindness. It effectively wards off would-be predators such as coyotes, foxes, and domestic pets.

Bongos

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