Jackson and Palmer
Striped skunk brothers Jackson and Palmer are the newest members of the Aquarium’s ambassador animal program. They can be told apart by their stripes—Jackson has thicker stripes than Palmer, and he has white spots under each leg. They were born at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado in 2023, making them just over a year old. Raised to be ambassadors, they work alongside Aquarium educators to teach the public about their wild counterparts.
When and Where
Ambassador animals live behind-the-scenes and work alongside educators during scheduled public presentations, so visitors can learn about animal adaptations, the roles they play in nature, and how humans can coexist with wildlife. Guests can view a Jackson and Palmer presentation in the Aquarium’s lobby every Tuesday and Thursday at 3:30pm.
The Scenter of Attention
“Will they spray us?”
Great question! While skunks are famed for their odorific spray, it’s their last line of defense. A skunk’s bold coloration warns predators to stay away, and if that doesn’t work, a skunk will stomp the ground to intimidate the threat. As a last resort, a skunk will bend into a U shape, face the target, lift its tail, and let loose a stream of potent, oily liquid. Skunks can spray up to 15 feet, with surprising accuracy. Jackson and Palmer’s scent glands were removed while they were neutered—they don’t spray, but they can release a puff of odorous air if startled.
Skunk Adoption
We now offer the striped skunk as an adoption option! Adoption packages support Jackson and Palmer’s care–learn more and adopt at aquarium.org/adopt.
