Geographic Range of the Hooded Skunk, Mephitis macroura / With Description of a New Subspecies from Mexico

The paper analyzes the distribution and taxonomy of the hooded skunk, distinguishing it from its congener by cranial and pelage traits, summarizes previous subspecies recognized by Howell, and maps occurrence largely within arid regions of the Mexican Plateau and separated lowland pockets. It recognizes four subspecies—milleri, macroura, vittata, and a newly described lowland form, eximius—providing diagnostic measurements and pelage differences, noting habitat barriers created by humid vegetation belts that isolate populations, and contrasting larger, short‑tailed upland forms with smaller, long‑tailed lowland forms while presenting range notes, comparisons, and specimen data.