What does skunk spray smell like?

The primary components responsible for the distinctive and overpowering odor of skunk spray are various sulfur-containing compounds, primarily low molecular weight thiols. These thiols include:

- trans-2-Butene-1-thiol (commonly referred to as butyl mercaptan)

- 3-Methyl-1-butanethiol

- 2-Methyl-2-butanethiol

- sec-Butyl mercaptan

- Ethyl mercaptan

These sulfur-containing compounds create an intensely unpleasant, pungent odor that can be described as pungent, musky, pungent, gas-like, or even acrid. The concentration and ratio of these compounds can vary between individual skunks, influencing the potency and exact nature of the odor.