While raising its tail is a common sign that a skunk is feeling threatened and may spray, it's not the only way they can release their foul odor. They can actually spray with their tail in a normal position.
Here's why:
* Muscles: Skunks have powerful muscles around their anal glands that can force the spray out with great force, even without raising their tail.
* Accuracy: They can actually aim their spray in different directions, even with their tail down.
* Surprise attack: Skunks may choose to spray suddenly and unexpectedly, without any warning signs like tail raising.
So, even if a skunk doesn't raise its tail, it's best to avoid getting too close to one, as they can still unleash their potent defense mechanism!