The striped skunk also known as the polecat, is a mammal that's native to North America. It's characterized by its distinct white and black stripes that run from its head down to its tail. While the word "striped skunk" is the most common way to refer to this fascinating creature, there are several other synonyms that can be used to describe it. Some alternative names for the striped skunk include the American skunk, the black-and-white skunk, the woodland skunk, and the eastern skunk. Other colloquial terms include the stink badger and the perfume bear, both of which refer to its potent and odorous defense mechanism.